Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal Says APC Defection Aimed at Tackling Banditry

Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal Says APC Defection Aimed at Tackling Banditry

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has explained that his decision to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) was driven by the need to strengthen efforts against banditry and insecurity in the state. He made this known during a one-day APC stakeholders’ meeting held at the Government House in Gusau on April 25, 2026.

Speaking at the gathering, Lawal emphasized that aligning with key political figures at both state and federal levels would improve coordination in addressing the persistent security crisis in Zamfara. He noted that his defection in March marked a strategic move to collaborate more effectively with influential stakeholders, including former governors and federal authorities.

The meeting brought together prominent political figures such as Ahmad Sani Yerima, Mahmuda Shinkafi, Abdulaziz Yari, and Bello Matawalle. Their joint appearance was presented as a symbol of unity and collective commitment to stabilizing the state.

Lawal stated that the stakeholders’ meeting was the first major APC gathering since his defection and was designed to foster cohesion within the party ahead of its congresses scheduled to begin on April 28. He called on political leaders in Zamfara to put aside differences and work together in confronting insecurity.

The governor also commended Bola Tinubu for providing support to Zamfara through security infrastructure, personnel, and logistics. According to him, federal backing has been crucial in ongoing efforts to restore peace in areas heavily affected by bandit attacks.

In addition, Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring fairness, inclusiveness, and due process within the party. He highlighted ongoing development initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and improving living conditions across the state.

During the meeting, the former governors expressed their loyalty to the APC leadership and pledged support for Tinubu’s administration, including his potential re-election bid in 2027. Their statements reinforced the broader message of unity and political alignment conveyed at the event.

Zamfara State has been one of the regions most affected by banditry in Nigeria, with frequent incidents of kidnappings, attacks on rural communities, and displacement of residents. The crisis has posed significant challenges to governance, economic activity, and public safety.

Political alignment at both state and federal levels is often seen as a critical factor in addressing such security issues, as it can enhance coordination of resources, intelligence sharing, and policy implementation. Lawal’s move to join the APC therefore reflects a broader strategy aimed at consolidating political influence to confront a common threat.

The show of unity among current and former leaders also carries implications for future political dynamics, particularly as parties begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections. By bringing together influential figures under one platform, the APC in Zamfara may be seeking to strengthen its internal structure while projecting stability to the electorate.

Governor Dauda Lawal’s explanation of his defection underscores the central role of security concerns in shaping political decisions in Zamfara State. By aligning with the APC and key political stakeholders, he aims to build a coordinated response to banditry while fostering unity within the party. As the state continues to grapple with insecurity, the effectiveness of this political realignment will likely be measured by tangible improvements in safety and stability for residents.