APC Group Hails Reconciliation Between Zamfara Governor Lawal and Former Governor Matawalle
The Northern APC Peace Agenda has praised the reconciliation between Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and his predecessor, Bello Matawalle, describing it as a calming force in the state's political climate ahead of the 2027 elections. The group stated that this development strengthens internal cohesion within the All Progressives Congress and reduces tensions often associated with succession politics.
Reconciliation Reshapes Zamfara's Political Landscape
In a statement released on Wednesday in Kaduna and signed by its president, Alhaji Rabiu Ahmad, the group commended Matawalle's decision to publicly support Lawal and withdraw from any governorship ambition. Matawalle, now the Minister of State for Defence, made his position known during a reception organized to mark Lawal's defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC in Gusau. His declaration effectively ended months of speculation about potential rivalry between the two leaders as the next electoral cycle approaches.
Lawal's defection has brought the incumbent governor and his immediate predecessor under the same political platform. Observers view this alignment as a major shift in Zamfara's political structure, given the significant influence both figures command across the state. The event drew several senior party leaders, including Vice-President Kashim Shettima, whose presence signaled the strategic importance of the reconciliation to the APC's plans in the Northwest region.
Party Unity and National Interest Emphasized
Reacting to the alliance, Ahmad described it as a rare display of responsibility in a region where political competition often leads to prolonged divisions. He said, "The coming together of Governor Dauda Lawal and former Governor Bello Matawalle under one political platform represents a turning point for Zamfara State. This is not just a political alignment; it is a demonstration of maturity, restraint, and a shared commitment to the stability and progress of the state."
Ahmad also pointed to Matawalle's decision to back Lawal as evidence of loyalty to the APC and the federal government. The statement reads, "We commend former governor Matawalle for placing the success of President Bola Tinubu's administration above personal political considerations. Such a decision reflects loyalty, discipline, and an understanding that the strength of the party and the country must come before individual aspirations."
The group added that sustained cooperation between both leaders could improve governance, grassroots mobilization, and development outcomes in Zamfara. It noted that closer alignment with the federal government may enhance coordination and access to national support, while party leaders at the center have also welcomed the governor's move into the APC.
Background on Recent Developments
Earlier, Gusau recorded a landmark moment as an aircraft touched down at the newly completed Gusau International Airport, marking the facility's first successful flight operation. The test landing took place at exactly 4:30 pm, according to a statement issued by Sulaiman Bala Idris, spokesperson to Dauda Lawal. This event underscores ongoing infrastructure developments in the state amidst the political reconciliation efforts.
