Kashim Shettima on Tuesday led a high-powered delegation of governors and party leaders to formally welcome Dauda Lawal into the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in what observers described as a major political realignment in Zamfara State.
The grand reception, held at the Trade Fair Complex in Gusau, drew thousands of supporters, political stakeholders, and dignitaries from across the country, effectively bringing activities in the state capital to a standstill.
According to a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the Vice President arrived earlier at the newly constructed Gusau International Airport before proceeding to the venue of the event.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of at least 10 state governors, including Umar Namadi, Abba Kabir Yusuf, Uba Sani, Caleb Muftwang, Dapo Abiodun, Ahmad Aliyu, Ahmadu Fintiri, Dikko Radda, Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, and Hope Uzodinma.
Also in attendance were top federal lawmakers, including the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajuddeen Abbas.
The APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, ministers, party chieftains, and other dignitaries were equally present.
In his address, Shettima expressed optimism that Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly in Zamfara and other affected regions, would soon be overcome under the leadership of Bola Tinubu.
He emphasized that the administration remains committed to safeguarding lives and property across the country.
“We pray for more unity and progress under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because our leader is working very hard to ensure the safety of lives and property across Nigeria,” the Vice President said.
He added that Governor Lawal’s defection to the APC would strengthen ongoing efforts to address insecurity in Zamfara, noting that the alignment of key political actors in the state would enhance stability and governance.
Mr Shettima further downplayed the prospects of opposition parties such as the African Democratic Congress, ADC, and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, asserting that the consolidation of political forces in Zamfara under the APC would limit their influence.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the APC Governors Forum, Governor Hope Uzodinma, described Lawal’s entry into the party as a “win-win” development for both the state and the APC.
“APC is a moving train, and we are happy that Zamfara has joined that train. All APC governors will support Governor Lawal to do more for the people of the state,” Uzodinma said.
In his remarks, Governor Lawal assured party leaders and supporters of his commitment to inclusive governance, pledging fairness, justice, and sustained development for the people of Zamfara State.
“I will continue to work diligently in the interest of our people and ensure that governance remains people-oriented,” he said.
The event also attracted former Zamfara governors, including Abdulaziz Yari, Muhammad Bello Matawalle, and Mahmuda Shinkafi, who pledged their support for the governor and the APC.
The large turnout and high-profile attendance underscored the political significance of Lawal’s defection, which is expected to reshape the political landscape of Zamfara State ahead of future elections.
