In a major political development in Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle, former governor of the state and current Minister of State for Defence, has ruled out any intention to contest the 2027 governorship election, declaring his full support for Governor Dauda Lawal’s re-election bid.
Matawalle made the announcement on Tuesday in Gusau during the official reception organised for Governor Lawal following his entry into the All Progressives Congress.
Matawalle Endorses Lawal as Sole Candidate
Addressing party supporters and political stakeholders, Matawalle publicly endorsed Lawal as his preferred and sole candidate for the governorship seat in 2027, signaling a major political alignment in the state.
He urged party members, supporters, and political leaders across Zamfara to unite behind the governor and offer full cooperation to strengthen the administration’s success.
“I will not contest the 2027 governorship election. Governor Dauda Lawal has my full support, and all stakeholders should rally behind him to ensure continuity and stability in Zamfara,” Matawalle declared.
Lawal’s Defection Reshapes Zamfara Politics
Governor Lawal, who succeeded Matawalle in office, recently resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party and formally joined the APC, a move that has significantly altered the political landscape in the state.
His defection came after a court-backed crisis within the PDP, following an appellate ruling that upheld an earlier Federal High Court judgement restraining the party from conducting its national convention held in Ibadan in November 2025.
Lawal cited prolonged legal disputes and internal divisions within the PDP as key reasons for his decision to switch political camps.
APC Eyes Stronger 2027 Showing
Matawalle said the growing unity within the APC in Zamfara would strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 general elections and position the state to deliver one of the highest vote totals for President Bola Tinubu.
He also praised Tinubu’s leadership style, describing him as inclusive, strategic, and attentive to national interests.
“President Tinubu’s listening ability, merit-driven leadership, and political foresight have made APC the most formidable political force in Africa,” he said.
Party Leaders Welcome Defection
The event was attended by top APC leaders, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, who led the reception.
Barau Jibrin described Lawal’s move as a defining political moment for the North-West, saying it marks the beginning of a new political phase in the region.
He added that APC governors, represented by Hope Uzodinma, assured Lawal of their collective support while reaffirming loyalty to President Tinubu.
“This is a win-win for Zamfara and a moment of shared political commitment,” he said.
APC Leadership Presents Party Flag
Presenting the APC flag to Lawal, Nentawe Yilwatda said the ruling party continues to attract influential leaders because of its commitment to stability, development, and national progress.
According to him, APC remains a political platform where patriotism, leadership, and new ideas are encouraged.
The endorsement is expected to further consolidate APC’s influence in Zamfara ahead of 2027 and could reshape alliances across the North-West.
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