Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, is facing mounting political pressure following a fresh wave of defections from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Multiple sources within Government House, Gusau, confirmed to journalists that the governor is expected to travel to Abuja for a series of strategic consultations aimed at stemming the tide of defections and stabilising his political base.
Political analysts say the consultations form part of efforts to negotiate political backing as the APC strengthens its foothold in the state.
Recent defections have shaken the ruling PDP, with prominent party members — including lawmakers, ward leaders and former aides — accusing the governor of neglecting loyalists, poor performance, and unfulfilled campaign promises.
On Tuesday, Hon. Maharazu Salisu, representing Maradun II Constituency in the Zamfara State House of Assembly, formally joined the APC at the party’s state secretariat in Gusau. He was joined by five PDP ward leaders, marking another blow to the governor’s camp.
The exodus follows recent reports that a PDP candidate allegedly supported by the governor with over ₦4 billion during a by-election has also defected to the APC, citing dissatisfaction with the administration and public discontent.
Currently, the APC holds 13 of the 24 seats in the state legislature. Sources say as many as seven additional PDP lawmakers may cross over soon — a move that could leave Governor Lawal with just four loyal legislators and expose him to potential impeachment threats.
Insiders disclosed that Lawal held a closed-door meeting with some lawmakers on Monday night, expressing concern over the growing defections and their implications. One source claimed the governor hinted at “exploring international options” if forced out, citing reported overseas assets.
Meanwhile, the Northern APC Stakeholders Forum has warned the party’s leadership against welcoming Lawal should he seek political refuge. In a statement by its National Coordinator, Alhaji Mubarak Liman, the group alleged that Lawal has presided over one of Zamfara’s most challenging periods in terms of security and development.
“Governor Dauda Lawal has failed in critical areas — security, infrastructure, and welfare. Admitting him into the APC would be counterproductive for the party in Zamfara and the North-West,” the statement read.
The forum said the wave of defections underscores the governor’s dwindling popularity and weakening grassroots support.
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