Zamfara Commissioner Resigns as Governor and Entire Assembly Defect to APC
Wadatau Madawaki has resigned as Zamfara State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology following a major political shift triggered by Governor Dauda Lawal's defection to the All Progressives Congress. The resignation and subsequent mass defection of the state's legislative body mark a significant realignment in Zamfara's political landscape.
Commissioner Cites Loyalty to PDP as Reason for Resignation
Madawaki stated that his decision was based on unwavering loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party, explaining: "I only resigned because the governor is joining the APC. I'm a PDP member... and I'm not ready to be an APC member." He firmly dismissed any suggestions of coercion, adding: "The governor has never forced anyone to resign... I only resigned because I think it is an honourable thing to do."
The Zamfara State Government has officially accepted his resignation, with Abubakar Nakwada confirming that Abdulmalik Gajam will serve as acting commissioner in the role. This administrative change comes amid sweeping political movements across the state.
Mass Defection of Zamfara State House of Assembly
In a dramatic development, members of the Zamfara State House of Assembly moved en masse from the PDP to the APC. Speaker Bilyaminu Moriki announced this significant shift during plenary in Gusau, stating: "It became necessary for all of us to support Gov. Dauda Lawal to bring more development to the state."
Key lawmakers who defected include:
- Deputy Speaker Adamu Aliyu
- Majority Leader Bello Mazawaje
- Chief Whip Rilwanu Nagambo
Following this move, all 24 members of the Zamfara State House of Assembly are now aligned with the APC, giving the party complete control of the state legislature.
Governor's Defection and Executive Council Movements
Governor Dauda Lawal defected to the APC alongside his deputy, Mani Mummuni, and several members of the state executive council. The governor cited internal challenges within the PDP as the primary reason for his political shift, which has now triggered a cascade of defections throughout the state government structure.
The APC has scheduled an official reception for the new members, expected to be attended by prominent party leaders including Kashim Shettima. This wave of defections represents a comprehensive political transformation in Zamfara, with both the executive and legislative arms of government now firmly under APC control.
The political realignment raises questions about future governance dynamics and party politics in Zamfara State, as the APC consolidates its position while the PDP faces significant organizational challenges in the region.
