The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has welcomed the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, into the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the governor’s reported defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Lawal was said to have joined the ruling party on Monday through representatives, including the Deputy Governor and members of the State Executive Council, as APC flags were displayed at the Zamfara Government House.

Reacting to the development in a post on his X handle, Matawalle described the governor’s defection as a historic moment for Zamfara State and the country.

He noted that Lawal’s move to the APC would strengthen efforts to tackle the numerous challenges confronting the state, particularly insecurity.

According to him, the development would also support the implementation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.

“Today marks a historic moment in the political history of our state and our dear nation as we welcome a friend and brother, the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, His Excellency Dauda Lawal, into our great party, the APC,” Matawalle said.

The minister added that politics should serve as a platform for unity and development rather than division, describing the governor’s defection as a reunion among political allies.

He further called on members of the party to remain united ahead of the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence that the APC would work together to secure victory.

Matawalle also pledged his support for the Zamfara governor in efforts aimed at achieving a safer and more prosperous state.