Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal defects from PDP to APC, citing internal crises and seeking stronger federal collaboration for state development
Zamfara State Governor, His Excellency Dr. Dauda Lawal, has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing persistent internal crises and leadership disagreements within the PDP.
The defection was finalised at a high-level meeting at the Government House, Gusau, attended by the Deputy Governor, senior government officials, and key political stakeholders.
Governor Lawal stated that unresolved structural challenges within the PDP were hampering effective governance and delaying the delivery of essential services to the people of Zamfara.
Governor Lawal explained that the decision followed extensive consultations with political leaders, local elders, and constituents from all fourteen local government areas.
The consensus gathered during these discussions highlighted that the ongoing intra-party conflicts were disrupting the party’s ability to achieve democratic dividends for citizens.
“While I remain grateful to PDP members for their years of support, my foremost responsibility is to ensure peace, security, and sustainable development for Zamfara,” Governor Lawal said. “The current political impasse compelled me to take decisive action for the greater good of our people.”
By joining the APC, Lawal emphasised his commitment to fostering unity among the state’s diverse communities, enhancing security, and strengthening ties with the Federal Government to accelerate development.
He highlighted plans to remove barriers that have historically delayed resource allocation from Abuja, aiming to address the state’s pressing security and economic challenges.
Governor Lawal urged citizens, political leaders, and party supporters to maintain peace and solidarity, expressing optimism that the defection would bring stability, unity, and renewed focus on development across Zamfara State.
APC Tinubu achievements publicity push gains momentum as Governor Oyebanji urges party leaders to highlight federal policies and reforms at grassroots level(more…)
The Lagos State House of Assembly has unanimously adopted a resolution endorsing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for a second term in office, citing landmark reforms and achievements recorded under his administration and pledging to mobilise resources to ensure his re-election.
The motion was moved by Hon. Oladipo Ajomale, representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency II, during plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rt Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on Tuesday, April 28.
After Hon. Ajomale’s motion, the legislators, one after the other, rose to trumpet the significant strides made under Tinubu’s leadership. They pointed to the removal of fuel subsidy, a bold reform that has saved the nation trillions of naira annually and redirected funds into infrastructure and social welfare. They also commended the unification of exchange rates, which has boosted transparency and attracted foreign investment inflows, stabilising the economy and restoring investor confidence.
The lawmakers praised the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which has expanded access to higher education for millions of Nigerian youths. They noted that this initiative has provided unprecedented opportunities for students from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue their academic dreams without financial barriers.
Infrastructure development was also a major talking point. Members cited the rehabilitation of refineries and the expansion of major projects, such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road and the Sokoto-Badagry corridor. These projects, they argued, are not only improving connectivity across the country but also creating jobs and stimulating local economies.
Economic diplomacy under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda was lauded, with lawmakers referencing the billions of dollars in foreign direct investment commitments secured from the United Kingdom, United States, and other global partners. They stressed that these investments are critical to Nigeria’s long-term growth and industrialisation agenda.
Food security initiatives were equally acknowledged. The Assembly noted the removal of import duties on rice and wheat, alongside the release of grain reserves to cushion the impact of inflation on households. These measures, they said, demonstrate the administration’s responsiveness to the needs of ordinary Nigerians.
Speaker Obasa, in his closing remarks, affirmed that the resolution reflects Lagos’ leadership role among state legislatures nationwide. He declared that President Tinubu’s administration has delivered “tangible and impactful achievements” across sectors.
“From stabilising our economy through subsidy reforms to empowering our youths with education loans, President Tinubu has renewed the hope of Nigerians. Lagos, as a pace-setter, stands firmly behind his second-term bid. If other political parties want to contest, they must first tell Nigerians what they achieved when given the chance to govern,” Obasa stated.
The Speaker emphasised that the endorsement was not merely symbolic but a demonstration of the Assembly’s unity and commitment to progress. He noted that Lagos has always been at the forefront of legislative innovation and political leadership, and this resolution further cements its role as a trailblazer among state assemblies.
In a related development, the Assembly confirmed new appointments within its administrative ranks. Mrs. Adenike Oshinowo, formerly Deputy Clerk, was announced as the new Clerk of the House, making history as the first female to occupy the position. Her appointment was described as a recognition of her dedication and years of service to the Assembly.
Other confirmations included Mr. Olaosebikan Ebenezer, former Deputy Director, Legislative, as Deputy Clerk; Mrs. Latifat Ogbara as substantive Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Service Commission (LAHASCOM), Mr. Remi Bello as Commissioner in LAHASCOM, and Mrs Adeola Victoria Modupe as Secretary to the Commission. These appointments, according to the Speaker, strengthen the Assembly’s administrative capacity and underscore its commitment to effective governance.
The Speaker congratulated the appointees and urged them to discharge their duties with diligence and integrity. He stressed that the Assembly’s administrative reforms will enhance efficiency and ensure that the legislature continues to serve the people of Lagos effectively.