In a significant political development, the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has launched a vigorous campaign to reclaim Zamfara State from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The minister addressed a gathering of All Progressives Congress (APC) members and supporters at the party's state secretariat in Gusau on Thursday, November 14, 2025.
Political Showdown in Gusau
The Defence Minister did not mince words as he sensitized stakeholders, party leaders, and supporters on why they should revolt against the current PDP administration. Matawalle promised that if voted back into office as governor, he would transform Zamfara into a better place for all residents to live happily and securely.
During his address, the former governor recalled Governor Dauda Lawal's campaign promise from 2023 to end banditry within his first 100 days in office. Matawalle lamented that instead of improving, the security situation in Zamfara has actually worsened under the current administration.
APC Gains Momentum as PDP Members Defect
The minister revealed that numerous PDP chieftains are deserting the party for APC due to various reasons, primarily their discomfort with Lawal's government. According to Matawalle, these defectors consistently describe the state government as lacking focus and direction.
He characterized the PDP leader in Zamfara as "not a politician but a businessman who opportunistically became a governor". The Defence Minister challenged APC supporters to identify any significant projects initiated, executed, and commissioned by the present administration, emphasizing that working on existing projects doesn't constitute an achievement.
Matawalle urged voters to critically assess Lawal's over two years in office and determine whether any positive impact has been made in the state. He encouraged them to express their dissatisfaction through the ballot box when the opportunity arises.
Security and Government Response
The political gathering witnessed massive turnout of APC supporters from across Zamfara State, with attendees chanting slogans demanding the PDP-led government vacate the Government House for better APC leadership. Security was exceptionally tight during the event, with security operatives blocking some roads to ensure the safety of lives and properties.
Meanwhile, the Zamfara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to women's empowerment, social inclusion, and gender-responsive governance. The State's Commissioner for Women, Children and Social Development Affairs, Dr. Aisha MZ Anka, disclosed this during the 25th National Council on Women Affairs and Child Development held in Edo State.
In a statement issued by the ministry's spokesman, Suleiman Aliyu Gusau, Dr. Anka stated that Governor Dauda Lawal's administration has transformed human capital development in Zamfara by creating opportunities for women to contribute to the state's rapid development.
The commissioner highlighted several women-focused empowerment programs that have been introduced, benefiting women in both rural and urban communities. These initiatives include agricultural inputs provision, goat rearing schemes, skill acquisition programs, and other interventions aimed at strengthening women's economic independence.
Dr. Anka commended Governor Lawal for transforming her ministry into a vibrant learning center and platform through which women can access democracy's dividends. She also praised the efforts of Zamfara State's First Lady, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, and the Hon. Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaam Suleman Ibrahim, for their contributions to women's welfare.
