APC Expands Grip as Zamfara Governor Joins Fold

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strengthened its political dominance following the defection of Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, into the ruling party, a move that is expected to reshape the political landscape in the North-West ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The governor formally announced his decision after a closed-door meeting with top APC leaders in Abuja, where party officials described his entry as a major boost to the party’s consolidation efforts across the country.

Speaking shortly after the meeting, the National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Ganduje, said the party remains committed to expanding its base and welcoming leaders who are ready to work for national unity and development.

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According to him, the inclusion of the Zamfara governor reflects growing confidence in the policies of the Federal Government and the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

Party insiders said the decision followed weeks of consultations involving key political stakeholders in Zamfara, with many local leaders reportedly backing the move in anticipation of stronger federal collaboration on security and economic development in the state.

Zamfara has faced persistent security challenges in recent years, including banditry and kidnapping, and analysts believe the governor’s defection could pave the way for closer coordination with federal authorities in tackling insecurity.

Political observers also see the development as part of a broader strategy by the APC to strengthen its hold in northern states, where competition among major parties is expected to intensify ahead of the next election cycle.

Several APC governors and National Assembly members were present at the meeting, describing the governor’s move as timely and necessary for national stability.

They noted that the ruling party remains open to new members, insisting that its focus is on delivering good governance rather than political rivalry.

Opposition figures, however, criticised the defection, saying it reflects the growing pressure on state leaders to align with the party at the centre.

Despite the criticism, APC officials maintained that the party’s growth is driven by performance and public support, not coercion.

With the latest defection, the APC now controls more states across the federation, reinforcing its position as the dominant political force in Nigeria as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 elections.