Matawalle Welcomes Zamfara Gov Lawal To APC Amid Political Realignment

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has welcomed Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal into the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the governor’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The move, announced on Monday through the deputy governor and members of the state executive council, saw APC flags hoisted at the Government House in Gusau, signaling the official shift in political allegiance.

In a statement posted on his X account, Matawalle described the defection as a historic moment in the political history of Zamfara State and Nigeria at large.

He hailed Governor Lawal as a “friend and brother” and emphasized that the decision marks a political reunion aimed at fostering unity rather than division.

“Today marks a historic moment in the political history of our state and our dear nation as we welcome a friend and brother, the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, His Excellency Dauda Lawal, into our great party, the APC,” Matawalle stated.

He expressed confidence that the governor’s entry into the APC would bolster collective efforts to tackle pressing challenges, especially insecurity plaguing the state, while advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.

Matawalle called on party members to unite in preparation for the 2027 general elections, assuring that together they would secure victory.

“As a progressive, I will support Governor Dauda Lawal in pursuing our collective vision for a more secure and prosperous Zamfara State,” he added.

The defection comes amid ongoing political realignments in Zamfara and is seen as a boost for the APC’s dominance in the North West region, potentially strengthening the party’s position ahead of future polls.

Other APC figures, including chieftain Shinkafi, have also extended welcomes to the governor.

This development follows earlier rumors and invitations from Matawalle and APC leaders urging Lawal to join the ruling party openly.

Aprokorepublic