Zamfara APC Engulfed in Internal Crisis as Matawalle Speaks Out
An intense internal crisis is currently shaking the foundations of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Zamfara State, with factions clashing over political interests and power-sharing arrangements. The state convention of the party is anticipated to occur soon, but preparations are marred by deep-seated divisions and conflicts among key leaders.
Factional Struggles and Leadership Control
Investigations reveal that the APC in Zamfara is embroiled in a fierce struggle for control, with party leaders locking horns over their individual interests. This discord has plunged the party into confusion, as it grapples with ongoing factional disputes and battles over who ultimately controls the party's direction in the state.
It has been gathered that Governor Dauda Lawal, who recently defected to the APC, and his political ally, Senator Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar, are jointly making critical decisions regarding the allocation of key positions. These positions are crucial for managing the party's expected second tenure following the 2027 elections, including leadership structures within the APC.
Matawalle's Viral Audio and Accusations
In a widely circulated audio recording, the Minister of State for Defense, Hon. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has voiced his frustrations, alleging that Governor Lawal and Senator Yari have deliberately excluded him from these decision-making processes. Matawalle lamented, "They decide and shared all key positions without even contacting me."
Reflecting on his past contributions, Matawalle highlighted his efforts during his tenure as governor, when he defected to the ruling party and worked to prevent grudges within the government and party. Despite his selfless decisions, he noted that some party members engaged in secret activities that contributed to the APC's failure in the 2019 elections.
Renunciation of Ambition and Subsequent Abandonment
Matawalle recalled that after Governor Lawal was formally welcomed into the party by Vice President Kashim Ibrahim Shettima, he publicly renounced his own political ambitions and urged his followers to support Lawal's bid for a second term. However, since then, he claims that Governor Lawal has openly embraced Senator Yari while abandoning him, describing this as a clear political blunder.
Emphasizing his influence, Matawalle stated that he has a substantial following across all 14 local government areas of Zamfara, who are awaiting his directives. His supporters have expressed concerns that the current arrangements do not respect his status as a party leader, to which he advised patience and loyalty to the APC, noting that "we still have a long way to go."
Warning and Caution for the Future
Matawalle issued a stern warning to Governor Lawal, urging him to be cautious. He pointed to the ongoing political maneuvers involving Mukhtar Shehu, who is vying for the governorship in 2027, alleging that this underground project is sponsored by Senator Yari, similar to actions in 2019 that ultimately led to the APC's failure in gubernatorial and legislative positions.
This unfolding crisis underscores the volatile political landscape in Zamfara, with potential implications for the APC's stability and success in upcoming elections. As factions continue to vie for control, the party's ability to unite and present a cohesive front remains in question.
