Zamfara APC Emerges Victorious in By-Election Amid Allegations of Interference
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State has been declared victorious in the recently concluded by-election, according to the Zamfara Good Governance Group (ZGGG). This comes despite alleged attempts by the state’s deputy governor, chief of staff to the governor, and other senior government officials to influence the outcome.
The ZGGG commended the party faithful and supporters for defending their votes, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain transparency and ensure the final result reflects the people’s will. The group also acknowledged the efforts of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, in sustaining the APC’s grassroots strength in the state.
In a statement, ZGGG President Murtala Abdullahi praised Matawalle’s uncommon leadership and loyalty to the APC, citing his ability to inspire confidence in the party. “Despite not holding the reins of state government, Matawalle has shown remarkable leadership and commitment to the APC,” Abdullahi said. “The bye-election has demonstrated his firm connection with the people and his ability to unite the party.”
Abdullahi attributed the APC’s dominance in Zamfara’s political space to the structures and trust built during Matawalle’s tenure as governor. “Zamfara people stood tall in the face of undue pressure, displaying courage, resilience, and faith in democracy,” he stated. “Their determination to protect their choice is commendable and has ensured the APC’s continued dominance.”
However, the INEC declared the bye-election inconclusive due to irregularities in some polling units, announcing a new date for the supplementary poll. The ZGGG warned that democracy must be defended at all costs and called on INEC to ensure the supplementary election is free, fair, and credible.
The group emphasized the importance of internal unity and focus on service delivery in strengthening the APC ahead of future elections. “Matawalle’s presence is still strongly felt in Zamfara, and his ability to balance his role at the federal level with his commitment to his home state has kept the party machinery active and formidable,” Abdullahi said.
The ZGGG also called on security agencies to provide adequate protection for voters during the supplementary poll, stressing that the courage displayed by citizens in the initial exercise must not be undermined. “Zamfara people deserve a credible electoral process that reflects their will,” Abdullahi added. “We trust that INEC will soon announce a date for the supplementary election and that the voices of our people will ultimately prevail.”
