Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has strongly refuted the circulating rumors suggesting his intention to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Official Statement from the Governor’s Office
In a statement released on Friday, Mustapha Jafaru Kaura, the Governor’s Senior Special Adviser on Media, addressed the misinformation through the Facebook page of the Governor’s Special Assistant on Social Media, Mugira Yusuf. Kaura described the rumors as “contrived by mischief makers” and noted that this was not the first instance of such unfounded claims. He stated, “The rumor was concocted by mischief makers, and this is not the first time such an insinuation is being made. But outrightly, it’s not true.”
Context of Similar Political Movements
While Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah moved with his entire cabinet to the ruling APC, his counterpart in Bayelsa, Governor Diri, has yet to announce any new political affiliation. However, reports indicate that his deputy has not defected from the PDP.
In recent days, speculations have also emerged suggesting that Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State might follow in the footsteps of Mbah and Diri by switching allegiance to the ruling APC.
Broader Political Implications
These potential defections highlight the ongoing political realignments within Nigeria’s political landscape. Political analyst Dele Momodu recently commented that Nigerians have been “jazzed” by some politicians, indicating public skepticism towards such moves.
In related developments, the PDP has dropped its Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade, and appointed Chris Uche for the upcoming convention legal battle. Meanwhile, Governor Makinde of Oyo State has indicated that only a specific kind of defection would prompt him to act, underscoring the calculated nature of these political decisions.
Bayelsa PDP reacted to Governor Diri’s potential resignation with “Best Wishes,” indicating a measured response to political changes. Meanwhile, former Senator Ben Murray-Bruce explained his own switch from PDP to APC by stating, “It is not about the party,” highlighting personal or strategic reasons over party loyalty.
Finally, the PDP itself revealed why some governors are leaving the party, pointing to internal and external factors influencing these significant political shifts.
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