A local government chairman in Zamfara State, Nigeria, has accused a former party official of engaging in anti-party activities before defecting to a rival party. Alhaji Munnir Haidara, Chairman of Kaura-Namoda Local Government Area, made the allegations against Sadiq Chiroma, the former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the area. According to Haidara, Chiroma had been secretly meeting with stakeholders from the All Progressives Congress (APC) during and after a recent state assembly bye-election, which he claimed was contrary to the PDP’s constitution.
Haidara alleged that Chiroma’s actions were aimed at undermining the PDP’s chances in the election, and that he had been leaking confidential party information. He also linked the defection of a former PDP assembly candidate, Mohammed Lawal Kurya Madaro, to Chiroma’s influence. The local PDP had been aware of Chiroma’s alleged actions before his formal exit from the party, Haidara said.
The defection of Chiroma to the APC has sparked a reaction from the PDP, with Haidara reiterating the party’s support for Governor Dauda Lawal. He praised the governor’s “people-oriented projects” in Kaura-Namoda and urged residents to continue backing government initiatives in the area. While wishing Chiroma well in his new political journey, Haidara remarked that the former chairman would “reap what he sowed” following his defection.
The development highlights the ongoing political dynamics in Zamfara State, where the PDP and APC have been vying for control. The state has experienced a series of defections and counter-defections in recent times, with politicians switching allegiance between the two major parties. The PDP has been working to maintain its stronghold in the state, while the APC has been seeking to gain ground.
In the context of Nigeria’s political landscape, the defection of Chiroma and other politicians has significant implications for the balance of power in the state. As the country approaches future elections, the dynamics of party politics are likely to continue to shift, with politicians maneuvering for position and influence. The PDP and APC will likely continue to compete for support in Zamfara State, with the outcome having important consequences for the state’s governance and development.
