Bello Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence issued a statement welcoming the governor into the party. Matawalle described the defection as “cheering and long overdue,” noting that he had anticipated the alignment due to shared goals for the state’s development, stability, and prosperity.
The statement reads: “I warmly welcome the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal into the All Progressives Congress (APC). His decision to join the progressive family is both cheering and long overdue. For quite some time, I have believed that this alignment would eventually happen, given the shared aspirations we hold for the development, stability, and prosperity of Zamfara State.
“The APC has, over the years, become a reference point for progressive values, democratic transformation, and purposeful governance in Nigeria. By aligning Zamfara State with the ruling party at the centre, Governor Lawal has opened the door to a more harmonious and productive relationship with the APC-led Federal Government. This connection will undoubtedly create opportunities for stronger collaboration and greater support for policies and programmes that can accelerate development in our state.
“This development is also particularly important at a time when Zamfara continues to face serious security challenges. Addressing these issues requires unity of purpose and close coordination between the state and the Federal Government. With the Governor now in the APC, we are better positioned to work together in a more unified, collaborative, and strategic manner to confront insecurity and restore peace and stability across the state. As the Minister of State for Defence, I look forward to strengthening this cooperation so that we can collectively deliver the security and stability our people deserve.
“The timing of this decision is also significant as we approach another important electoral cycle. It is important that we work together to consolidate support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu while also ensuring that the good people of Zamfara State continue to benefit from stable leadership at the state level. I believe that through unity, cooperation, and shared commitment within the APC, we can deliver Zamfara State for our President and also ensure that Governor Dauda Lawal secures the mandate to continue serving the people of the state.
“For me, this moment is both reassuring and welcome. I have looked forward to this development for quite some time, and I believe it marks the beginning of a new phase of cooperation in advancing the interests of Zamfara State.
“I therefore assure Governor Dauda Lawal of my full support and cooperation as we work together, alongside the leadership of our great party and the Federal Government, to strengthen security, deepen development, and deliver greater progress for the people of Zamfara State.”
