Vice President Kashim Shettima has affirmed that Nigeria will overcome its persistent security challenges, stating that the federal government is committed to restoring peace nationwide. He made the remarks on Tuesday in Gusau, Zamfara State, during an event where Governor Dauda Lawal and his supporters formally joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The ceremony, attended by key national figures, marked a significant political realignment in the northwestern state.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Shettima praised the administration’s efforts to safeguard citizens and property. “We pray for more unity and progress under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because as our leader, he is working very hard to ensure the safety of lives and property across Nigeria,” he said. He added that Governor Lawal’s transition to the APC would bolster coordinated actions against insecurity, particularly in states like Zamfara grappling with banditry and violence. The Vice President also pledged the full backing of the federal government and the party to the governor.
The defection was widely endorsed by legislative and party leaders. Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, representing Senate President Godswill Akpabio, stated that APC lawmakers fully support the move. He stressed that collaborative governance among governors is essential to addressing both security and developmental issues, noting that Zamfara’s challenges are not isolated but part of a national concern requiring regional cooperation.
Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas described the event as a pivotal political development, declaring, “Today there is no opposition in Zamfara State.” He urged residents to unite behind the governor to accelerate state development. Hope Uzodimma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, framed the defection as beneficial for both Zamfara and the APC, stating, “APC is a moving train and we are happy that the State has joined that train.”
APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda confirmed that Zamfara has now fully aligned with the ruling party. He presented Governor Lawal with the party’s flag, commending his infrastructure initiatives. In response, Lawal thanked former governors, including Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle and Senator Abdulazeez Yari, for their support. He pledged to work with his predecessors and commit loyalty to the APC, vowing to prioritise the state’s progress.
The ceremony underscores the APC’s growing dominance in Zamfara, effectively eliminating formal political opposition in the state. Analysts suggest this consolidation could streamline policy implementation and security coordination with federal authorities. Governor Lawal’s switch follows a pattern of opposition figures joining the ruling party, reinforcing the APC’s control ahead of future elections. For Zamfara, the development may shape efforts to combat entrenched insecurity and underdevelopment, though tangible improvements will depend on sustained cooperation between state and federal agencies.
