Zamfara’s Lawal Shuts Down APC Defection Talk, Stays Loyal to PDP

 Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal firmly dismissed speculation about defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on April 20, 2025, emphasizing his loyalty to the PDP and focus on governance.

 In a statement posted on his verified Facebook and X accounts, Lawal described himself as a “bona fide member” of the PDP and urged the public to disregard “fake news” spread by detractors. The rumors, which surfaced amid political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, suggested Lawal was in talks with APC leaders to bolster the ruling party’s northern base. His rebuttal highlighted ongoing projects, including road construction and healthcare reforms, as evidence of his commitment to Zamfara’s development over political maneuvering.

The PDP, which won Zamfara in 2023 by a 65% margin, has faced internal rifts, with some members eyeing cross-party alliances. Lawal’s statement aimed to quell unrest among supporters, though analysts note defections are common in the region, with 12 governors switching parties since 2015, per Premium Times. Critics question whether Lawal’s denial masks strategic negotiations, given the APC’s control of 20 states