Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle has said he will not run for governor of Zamfara State in 2027, instead supporting the re-election of Dauda Lawal.
He announced on Tuesday during a reception organised to welcome Governor Lawal into the All Progressives Congress
Matawalle, who lost the 2023 governorship election to Lawal, said he has stepped aside and is ready to work with him moving forward.
“I have withdrawn my intention to contest for the governorship election, and I will wholeheartedly help my brother, Governor Dauda Lawal, to be re-elected in 2027,” he said.
The event drew top political figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and former Zamfara governor Abdulaziz Yari, as well as party leaders and supporters.
Speaking at the gathering, Shettima said the federal government remains committed to tackling insecurity in Zamfara, particularly the ongoing threat of banditry. He assured that more security personnel and equipment would be deployed to the state.
“The Federal Government will do everything possible to get rid of the marauding bandits who have been terrorising the people of the state,” he said.
He also pledged support for Lawal’s administration and urged residents to back both the governor and President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
Governor Lawal, who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC, said the move would not affect his style of governance. He thanked supporters from both parties and promised fairness across the board.
“I will continue to work harder for the progress of our state and give equal treatment to all party members,” he said.
Lawal officially left the PDP on March 9, citing internal party issues, and his defection has now reshaped the political landscape in Zamfara ahead of the next election cycle.
