Deputy Governor Mani Mummuni announces defection in Gusau as governor performs Umrah in Saudi Arabia, promises formal statement on return.

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the Court of Appeal judgment affirming a ruling that barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from validating the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) convention held in Ibadan.

The announcement was made on Monday by the Zamfara State Deputy Governor, Mani Mummuni, during a briefing at the Government House in Gusau.

According to the deputy governor, Lawal’s decision to defect marks a significant political shift in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Governor Lawal is currently in Saudi Arabia performing the lesser pilgrimage, Umrah, and is expected back in Nigeria soon. Officials said he would personally address the public and make a formal announcement regarding his defection upon his return.

The development comes amid growing political realignments in Zamfara, where reports suggest the governor had been engaged in consultations with influential APC figures over a possible switch.

Sources within the political circle say the move could reshape the balance of power in the state, with expectations that several PDP supporters and political actors may follow the governor into the ruling party.

Meanwhile, the unfolding political situation has also drawn criticism from some PDP supporters in the state, who have accused the governor of mismanaging public funds received by the state government in recent years—allegations that have yet to receive an official response.

Observers believe the defection could significantly influence party dynamics and alignments in Zamfara as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 elections.