KEY POINTS

• Bello Matawalle withdraws 2027 governorship bid to support Dauda Lawal’s reelection in Zamfara
• Lawal officially joins APC, pledges inclusive governance and continued state development
• Federal Government promises enhanced security support to combat banditry and safeguard Zamfara residents

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has announced that he will not contest the 2027 governorship election in Zamfara State, choosing instead to support Governor Dauda Lawal’s bid for a second term.

Matawalle, a key figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, made the declaration during Lawal’s official reception into the APC, following the governor’s recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Speaking at the ceremony, Matawalle said he was withdrawing his governorship ambition to fully support Lawal’s reelection campaign. “I have withdrawn my intention to contest for the governorship election, and I will wholeheartedly help my brother Governor Dauda Lawal to be reelected in 2027,” he said.

The reception was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, former governors including Abdulaziz Yari, APC leaders, and other chieftains of the party in Zamfara State. Vice President Shettima reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling security challenges in the state.

He pledged that adequate personnel and equipment would be deployed to combat banditry and support Lawal’s initiatives to advance the state. Shettima also encouraged residents to re-elect both President Bola Tinubu and Governor Lawal in the 2027 general elections.

Lawal Expresses Excitement at Joining APC

Addressing the audience, Lawal expressed excitement about joining the APC and assured that his governance priorities would remain unchanged despite the change in political platform.

He thanked stakeholders from both parties and promised inclusive leadership. “I am highly elated to be a member of the All Progressives Congress, and I will continue to work harder for the rapid progress of our dear state. I promise to give equal treatment to all party members for the betterment of our state,” Lawal said.

Lawal officially left the PDP on March 9, citing recurring leadership crises as his reason for switching parties. Matawalle’s decision to step aside signals a commitment to party unity and strategic collaboration ahead of the 2027 elections.

The event highlighted a show of solidarity among APC leaders and reinforced the federal government’s promise to support Zamfara in addressing security concerns and promoting development.