With the 2027 general elections approaching, internal conflicts within Zamfara State’s two dominant parties — the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) — are reshaping the governorship race. Analysts warn that divisions, defections, and factional battles could create an opportunity for a smaller party to emerge victorious.
More than 10 politicians from various parties are currently contesting the governorship seat. Unlike previous elections, success in 2027 may not depend solely on party popularity, given the challenges facing both APC and PDP.
The incumbent governor, Dauda Lawal of the PDP, is reportedly facing internal party crises, prompting speculation he might defect. Observers say a move to APC would be politically risky due to the party’s own divisions, including four major factions linked to Senator Yari, Bello Matawalle, Sani Jaji, and former Senator Kabir Marafa. Marafa has already left APC and is considering the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
If Governor Lawal remains in PDP, analysts say he could leverage his achievements and incumbency to secure a second term. PDP officials maintain that Lawal’s development projects in just over two years strengthen his re-election prospects, regardless of party affiliation.
Meanwhile, APC figures, including Matawalle and youthful contender Abdulmalik Zubairu (“Zannan Bungudu”), are also eyeing the governorship, but factional rivalries and potential protest votes may complicate their ambitions.
Political commentators caution that past defections in Zamfara have often backfired. Former governors Aliyu Shinkafi and Bello Matawalle both lost elections after switching parties. Observers advise Lawal that if he must leave PDP, joining a smaller, neutral party might offer the best path to securing re-election without jeopardising his development agenda.
As the 2027 polls approach, Zamfara’s governorship battle remains unpredictable, with intraparty divisions and strategic defections likely to determine the outcome.
