Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday led a high-powered delegation of governors and party leaders to formally receive Dauda Lawal into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), in what observers have described as a significant political shift in Zamfara State.
The grand reception, held at the Trade Fair Complex in Gusau, attracted thousands of supporters, political stakeholders, and dignitaries from across the country, bringing activities in the state capital to a standstill.
According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the Vice President arrived earlier at the newly constructed Gusau International Airport before proceeding to the event venue.
The ceremony drew at least 10 governors, including Umar Namadi, Abba Kabir Yusuf, Uba Sani, Caleb Muftwang, Dapo Abiodun, Ahmad Aliyu, Ahmadu Fintiri, Dikko Radda, Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, and Hope Uzodinma.
Also present were top federal lawmakers, including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajuddeen Abbas, alongside APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, ministers, and other party chieftains.
In his address, Shettima expressed optimism that Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly in Zamfara and other affected regions, would soon be overcome under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the country.
“We pray for more unity and progress under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because our leader is working very hard to ensure the safety of lives and property across Nigeria,” the Vice President said.
He added that Lawal’s defection to the APC would strengthen efforts to tackle insecurity in Zamfara, noting that the alignment of key political actors would enhance stability and governance in the state.
Shettima also downplayed the prospects of opposition parties such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), saying the consolidation of forces under the APC would limit their influence.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the APC Governors Forum, Hope Uzodinma, described Lawal’s entry into the party as a “win-win” for both Zamfara and the APC.
“APC is a moving train, and we are happy that Zamfara has joined that train. All APC governors will support Governor Lawal to do more for the people of the state,” he said.
In his remarks, Lawal pledged commitment to inclusive governance, assuring fairness, justice, and sustained development for the people of Zamfara State.
“I will continue to work diligently in the interest of our people and ensure that governance remains people-oriented,” he said.
The event also attracted former Zamfara governors, including Abdulaziz Yari, Muhammad Bello Matawalle, and Mahmuda Shinkafi, who pledged their support for the governor and the APC.
The large turnout and high-profile attendance underscored the political significance of Lawal’s defection, a move expected to reshape Zamfara’s political landscape ahead of future elections.
