One of President Bola Tinubu’s ministers has been named in a new strategy by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to reclaim power from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Zamfara State.
The minister, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, a former governor of the state currently serves as the Minister of State for Defense.
Concerns about the political strategy were raised by Alhaji Abubakar Umar, a chieftain of the PDP in Zamfara, during an interview with reporters in Gusau, the state capital.
According to Umar, wealthy backers of the APC are investing heavily in the 2027 general elections to secure victory for their party. In contrast, he noted that the PDP relies heavily on Governor Dauda Lawal’s financial support, while other members are hesitant to contribute.
Aside from Matawalle, Umar listed the influential role of Senator Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar, a two-term governor. He also named Hon. Abdulmalik Zubairu Zannah, representing Bungudu/Maru federal constituency, as a strong APC pillar who won’t let PDP win easily in his constituency.
“Though I am a card-carrying member of the PDP, the situation is taking another dimension as APC money bags are investing for the 2027 general elections to secure victory for their party.
“In PDP, Governor Dauda Lawal is the only sponsor of the party, while others are hiding their money, which cannot take the party anywhere.
“Don’t forget that Senator Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar, a two-term governor of the State and Hon. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, also a former governor and the current minister of State, Defense, are deeply rooted in Zamfara politics,” he said.
Furthermore, Umar acknowledged Senator Sahabi Ya’u Kaura’s control over Zamfara North, which could hinder PDP’s chances.
He added, “If APC can capture Zamfara North and West zones, what remains for PDP again to jubilate for?
“Power of incumbency may not be allowed by APC to work in 2027 general elections as the people have been showing seriousness.”
He added that the PDP has not formed a government in the state since 1999, except when APC’s internal conflicts worked in the party’s favour starting in 2019.
“Now, they have been reunited to fight a common political battle which may likely favour them in 2027 general elections,” he cautioned.
