Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing the need for political stability and improved governance in the state.

The development was announced in a press release issued by the Zamfara State Government on Monday, following what officials described as extensive consultations with political stakeholders, elders, and supporters across the state.

According to the statement, the governor’s decision came after careful consideration of the prolonged internal crisis, leadership disputes, and structural challenges currently affecting the PDP at both national and state levels. The government noted that these issues had created uncertainties capable of distracting from effective governance and the delivery of democratic dividends.

The statement said the governor believes aligning with the APC would provide a more stable political platform and enable stronger cooperation with the Federal Government in advancing the development agenda of Zamfara State. It added that the governor’s foremost priority remains the peace, security, and overall progress of the state.

Final deliberations on the defection were reportedly held at the Zamfara State Government House in Gusau, under the coordination of the Deputy Governor and attended by senior government officials as well as key political stakeholders.

Governor Lawal expressed appreciation to members and supporters of the PDP for their support over the years, but said prevailing political realities and unresolved challenges within the party made the move necessary in the interest of the state.

By joining the APC, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening unity, enhancing security, accelerating development, and ensuring that Zamfara State benefits from closer collaboration with the Federal Government.

The state government called on residents, political leaders, and stakeholders to remain calm and supportive as Zamfara enters what it described as a new political phase aimed at promoting unity, stability, and development.