Zamfara State witnessed a major political gathering as Vice President Kashim Shettima, alongside several governors and top government officials, arrived in Gusau to formally welcome Governor Dauda Lawal into the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The event, held at the Gusau Trade Fair Complex, attracted a large crowd of supporters, party members, and political stakeholders from within and outside the state. The high-profile reception signaled a significant shift in the political structure of Zamfara, with key figures rallying behind the governor’s move to join the ruling party.
Vice President Shettima, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, officially received Governor Lawal and members of his administration into the APC. The gathering was also attended by the Deputy Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, ministers, and leaders of the ruling party, reflecting the importance attached to the defection.
In his remarks, Shettima expressed optimism that Nigeria’s security challenges would soon be addressed, noting that the current administration is intensifying efforts to restore peace across the country. He added that stronger collaboration between the federal government and states would play a key role in tackling insecurity, particularly in troubled regions like Zamfara.
The Vice President further emphasized the importance of unity, stating that the governor’s decision to join the APC would enhance cooperation among political leaders in the state. According to him, the alignment of major stakeholders under one platform would strengthen governance and accelerate development.
Several governors from different states were present at the occasion, demonstrating solidarity with the APC and support for Lawal’s decision. Party leaders described the development as a strategic gain, noting that it would consolidate the party’s influence in the North-West region.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, described the development as beneficial to both the state and the party. He assured that APC governors across the country would support Lawal in delivering good governance and improving the welfare of citizens.
The APC National Chairman also welcomed the governor, praising his performance in office and highlighting ongoing infrastructural projects in the state. He noted that the governor’s achievements have contributed to growing confidence among residents and political stakeholders.
In a symbolic gesture marking his entry into the APC, Governor Lawal was presented with the party’s flag and emblem. The moment was greeted with cheers from supporters, signaling widespread acceptance of the political transition.
In his response, Lawal pledged to work with all stakeholders to promote unity and development in Zamfara. He expressed appreciation to political leaders and supporters who played a role in his decision, assuring residents that his administration would remain focused on delivering meaningful progress.
The defection is widely seen as a major political realignment in Zamfara, with analysts suggesting it could reshape the state’s political landscape ahead of future elections. With key actors now united under the APC, the party is expected to strengthen its hold in the state.
As political activities continue to build across the country, the development in Zamfara highlights ongoing efforts by parties to consolidate power and position themselves strategically for upcoming electoral contests.
