In a major political shake-up, the Speaker of the Zamfara House of Assembly, Bilyaminu Moriki, has officially defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Moriki’s move was mirrored by 12 of his colleagues, effectively consolidating the APC’s power within the state legislature.
Total APC Dominance in Zamfara Assembly
The defection was announced during a plenary session in Gusau on Monday, following the formal presentation of resignation letters to the House. This wave of defections marks a turning point for the state’s political landscape. With this development, the APC now maintains total control of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, holding all 24 seats.
Key legislative leaders who joined the APC include:
- Adamu Aliyu – Deputy Speaker (Gummi II constituency)
- Bello Mazawaje – Majority Leader (Tsafe East constituency)
- Rilwanu Nagambo – Chief Whip (Anka constituency)
Aligning with Governor Dauda Lawal
The Speaker noted that the lawmakers’ decision was primarily motivated by a desire to align with Governor Dauda Lawal, who recently made his own transition from the PDP to the APC. Moriki emphasized that the shift is intended to bridge the gap between the state and the center, fostering a more productive relationship with the federal government.
“It became necessary for all of us to support Governor Dauda Lawal to bring more development to the state,” Moriki stated. He further clarified that the lawmakers did not act alone, noting they received "full support" from their respective constituencies before finalizing the move to the APC.
High-Profile Official Reception Scheduled
The APC National Secretariat has set Tuesday, March 24, as the date for a grand ceremony to officially receive Governor Lawal and the defecting lawmakers into the party's fold. The event is expected to be a high-profile affair, featuring key national figures including:
- Vice President Kashim Shettima, who will lead the reception.
- The national leadership of the APC.
- All former governors of Zamfara State, signaling a unified front for the party.
This massive influx of PDP members into the APC underscores a significant shift in regional power, as the ruling party at the center continues to expand its influence within the North-West geopolitical zone.