Zamfara Governor Accuses Federal Government of Political Bias in State Support
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has made serious allegations regarding the distribution of federal government support to states, claiming his administration has received absolutely nothing while states governed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) have benefited from over N500 billion in assistance. The governor attributed this disparity directly to his membership in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stating that political affiliation appears to be determining which states receive crucial federal backing.
"I Have Received Nothing" - Governor Lawal's Stark Admission
During an interview with DW Hausa, Governor Lawal revealed the challenging financial situation facing Zamfara State under his leadership. "I have never received any support from the federal government, unlike the assistance others have received," Lawal stated emphatically. "I know some states have received over N500 billion from the federal government, but we haven't received anything yet."
The governor directly linked this funding gap to political differences, explaining: "And I think it is because I'm not in APC. I'm a member of the PDP — an opposition party. They don't support people like us." Despite this apparent disadvantage, Lawal emphasized that his administration has continued to fulfill its obligations, paying workers' salaries regularly and undertaking developmental projects using available state resources without resorting to loans.
Defections and Political Loyalty in Zamfara
The governor expressed disappointment about recent political defections from the PDP to the ruling APC in Zamfara State, particularly referencing the departure of six state assembly members who switched parties in December 2025. These lawmakers submitted separate resignation letters to the Speaker of the House explaining their decision to join the APC.
However, Lawal firmly committed to remaining with the PDP despite internal party challenges, stating he would not abandon the opposition party due to current wrangling. The governor did acknowledge that if circumstances prevent him from contesting the 2027 governorship elections on the PDP platform, he would explore alternative political parties since Nigeria's electoral system does not permit independent candidates.
Political Cross-Currents in Zamfara's Legislature
Interestingly, while six PDP lawmakers recently defected to the APC, the political movement hasn't been entirely one-directional. Earlier reports indicated that two Zamfara State House of Assembly members actually resigned from the APC to join the PDP, citing internal crises and poor leadership within the ruling party.
One of these defectors, whose constituency includes the hometown of former Governor Abdulaziz Yari, explained that continuous internal divisions and the marginalization of certain members prompted their departure. Both lawmakers emphasized that leaving the APC would enable them to better represent their constituents' aspirations through the opposition party.
Broader Implications for Federal-State Relations
Governor Lawal's allegations raise significant questions about the equitable distribution of federal resources across Nigeria's 36 states. If substantiated, such political discrimination in funding allocation could undermine constitutional provisions mandating fair treatment of all states regardless of governing party affiliation.
The Zamfara governor's claims come amid ongoing debates about fiscal federalism and the relationship between Nigeria's central government and state administrations. As the 2027 elections approach, these funding disparities could become increasingly contentious political issues, particularly in states experiencing security challenges like Zamfara, which has faced persistent banditry and communal conflicts.
Governor Lawal's administration continues to navigate these complex political and financial waters while maintaining its commitment to the PDP, even as it contemplates alternative pathways should the party's internal challenges persist through the next election cycle.
