Reports reaching NewsClick Nigeria on Monday evening has it that Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara state and his deputy, Mani Mummuni, have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Mummuni announced their defection on Monday during a meeting with members of the state executive council in Gusau, the state capital.
Director-General of media and communication at the office of the governor, Nuhu Anka also confirmed Lawal’s defection to the APC.
In a statement, Anka said the governor’s decision followed “extensive consultations with stakeholders, political leaders, elders, and supporters across the state”.
Anka said Lawal joined the ruling party in the “overriding interest of stability, progress, and the sustainable development of Zamfara state”.
“This decision was reached after wide consultations with political stakeholders and supporters, particularly in view of the prolonged internal crisis, leadership disagreements, and unresolved structural challenges within the PDP at both the national and state levels,” the statement reads.
“These challenges have continued to create uncertainty and distractions that could hinder effective governance and the delivery of democratic dividends to the people of Zamfara State.
“Consequently, it became necessary to align with a political platform that provides greater unity, stability, and stronger cooperation with the Federal Government for the benefit of the people.
“The final deliberation leading to this historic decision was held at the Government House in Gusau under the coordination and leadership of the Deputy Governor, alongside senior government officials and key political stakeholders.
“By joining the APC, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening unity, improving security, accelerating development, and ensuring that Zamfara State benefits fully from stronger collaboration with the Federal Government.”
The announcement lays to rest speculation on Lawal’s plan to defect to the APC.
With Lawal’s defection, the PDP is now left with two governors — Seyi Makinde of Oyo, and Bala Mohammed of Bauchi.
