APC Crisis: Shinkafi Accuses Matawalle of Divisive Politics

Former Zamfara State governorship candidate Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi has appealed to President Bola Tinubu and APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda to intervene in the party’s affairs in the state. Shinkafi alleges that Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle is engaging in divisive politics that contributed to the APC’s loss in the 2023 gubernatorial election. He claims Matawalle is using his ministerial office to receive APC members who switch camps, effectively turning the office into a personal campaign headquarters. According to Shinkafi, this distracts the minister from his primary duties, including addressing security challenges such as terrorism, insurgency and armed banditry.

Shinkafi warned that Matawalle’s actions could cause another APC defeat in Zamfara at the 2027 general election. He accused the minister of attempting to hijack party structures and factionalise the party, a move he says runs counter to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which stresses inclusive politics and governance. The APC chieftain also highlighted internal conflicts, noting the creation of rival factional leaderships by Hon. Aminu Sani Jaji and Senator Kabiru Mafara. To avoid unnecessary confrontations and further factionalisation, Shinkafi said he has detached himself from some party activities.

These concerns arise amid a broader national discussion on the need for inclusive politics and governance in Nigeria. As the ruling party, the APC is expected to promote unity and stability within its ranks, yet the situation in Zamfara suggests that internal conflicts and power struggles may be undermining its prospects in future elections. The call for intervention by President Tinubu and the APC national chairman underscores the importance of addressing these internal disputes and fostering a more cohesive, inclusive approach to party politics. As the 2027 general election approaches, the APC will need to reconcile its internal differences and present a united front to voters if it hopes to regain Zamfara State.