Political Pressure Rises on Governor Dauda Lawal as APC Strengthens Grip in Zamfara

Political Pressure Rise in Zamfara

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, is facing a mounting political crisis as a growing number of influential members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), intensifying the battle for dominance ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Sources close to the Government House in Gusau revealed that the governor is planning a series of high-level meetings in Abuja to address the internal turmoil within the PDP and to secure his political standing as the opposition continues to gain momentum across the state.

Political observers believe these consultations are aimed at managing tensions within the party, reconciling with key figures, and exploring alliances that could help Lawal retain his relevance amid the rising influence of the APC in Zamfara.

The recent wave of defections has shaken the ruling PDP, with notable politicians, including lawmakers and grassroots leaders, abandoning the party. Many of them cited the governor’s alleged failure to deliver on campaign promises, neglect of loyal members, and poor handling of developmental challenges.

Earlier this week, Hon. Maharazu Salisu, the lawmaker representing Maradun II Constituency in the Zamfara State House of Assembly, officially joined the APC during a public event held at the party’s secretariat in Gusau.

His defection, alongside five PDP ward leaders, is viewed as a significant political blow to Governor Lawal, who has struggled to maintain unity within his camp.

The crisis deepened further when reports surfaced that a PDP candidate, who was allegedly supported by the governor with over ₦4 billion during a recent by-election, also switched allegiance to the APC. The defector cited growing public dissatisfaction with the current administration’s performance and unmet promises.

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At present, the APC commands 13 out of 24 seats in the Zamfara State House of Assembly, strengthening its control and influence. Reports suggest that as many as seven additional PDP lawmakers may soon defect, potentially leaving the governor with a diminished base of just a few loyalists. Political analysts warn that this scenario could expose Lawal to impeachment risks if the defections continue.

An inside source disclosed that the governor held a closed-door meeting with select lawmakers earlier this week, where he reportedly expressed frustration over the ongoing defections and their potential consequences.

According to the source, the governor even hinted at “considering international options” should his political situation worsen, alluding to properties he allegedly owns in London, Dubai, the United States, and Germany.

Meanwhile, the Northern APC Stakeholders Forum has advised the national leadership of the APC to be cautious about accepting Governor Lawal into its fold. In a statement signed by the group’s National Coordinator, Alhaji Mubarak Liman, the forum accused the governor of poor governance, saying his record could negatively affect the party’s image in the North-West region.

“Governor Dauda Lawal has failed to meet the expectations of Zamfara citizens in key areas such as security, infrastructure, and welfare. Bringing him into the APC would send the wrong signal and weaken the party’s credibility,” the forum warned.

The statement added that the wave of defections in Zamfara reflects not just political realignment but also the growing discontent among citizens who feel abandoned by the current leadership.

Observers note that Governor Lawal’s dwindling popularity and the APC’s steady advance have reshaped the political atmosphere in the state. As the 2027 elections draw nearer, Zamfara’s political landscape appears increasingly volatile, with both major parties intensifying their campaigns to win over voters.

While the PDP struggles to maintain control, the APC seems poised to expand its dominance, leaving Governor Lawal in a difficult position as he battles to save his administration from internal collapse.