The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticized Governor Dauda Lawal for reportedly setting a condition for joining the party, demanding the removal of Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle.
In a statement issued by the APC Publicity Secretary, Yusuf Idris Gusau, the party described Lawal’s reported stance as “lies, prejudice, and evasion,” noting that the governor has long oscillated between the PDP and attempts to join the APC. The party accused him of portraying disloyalty while his aides dismiss the APC, save for a few who recognize the failures of the ruling PDP.
The statement emphasized Matawalle’s political influence and contributions, highlighting his role as Director-General of the Northwest Presidential Campaign Council during the 2023 elections and his coordination of security operations against banditry in the Northwest. The party cited successful operations, including the rescue of 24 abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi State, as examples of Matawalle’s effective leadership.
According to Gusau, Lawal’s reported demand is “out of place” as Matawalle has been instrumental in welcoming PDP decampees into the APC and strengthening the party’s presence in Zamfara. The APC stressed that the governor must follow proper party channels and demonstrate good faith, including releasing 270 APC members reportedly detained under his administration, before he can be accepted into the party.
The statement concluded that Governor Lawal’s conditional approach undermines the APC’s constitution and that the party, along with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, are closely monitoring the situation.