The All Progressives Congress (APC) National Youth Wing has welcomed Hon. Muhammad Lawal Kuryar Madaro, the former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Kaura Namoda South State House of Assembly, following his defection to the ruling party.
The group described the move as a reflection of growing confidence in the APC and a strong endorsement of the leadership style of the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle.
In a statement issued by Comrade Danjuma Nuhu, the Youth Wing’s spokesperson, the group hailed the defection as “a bold embrace of progress and an outright rejection of Governor Dauda Lawal’s catastrophic administration.”
According to Nuhu, “Dr Bello Matawalle is a rare gem, a leader whose political dexterity and foresight have elevated him to a towering figure in Nigerian politics. As Minister of State for Defence, he has spearheaded relentless efforts to curb banditry, bringing renewed hope to Zamfara’s beleaguered communities.”
He added that Matawalle’s inclusive leadership and focus on security and development have strengthened the APC’s base and inspired confidence across the North-West region.
“His ability to unite diverse groups and inspire defections like Kurya’s attests to his magnetic leadership and unyielding commitment to progress,” Nuhu declared.
Kurya’s defection came after his defeat in the August supplementary election, where the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared the APC candidate, Kamilu Sa’idu, as the winner of the Kaura Namoda South constituency. INEC’s Returning Officer, Lawal Sa’adu of the Federal University Gusau, confirmed Sa’idu’s victory with 1,181 votes against Kurya’s 194.
Nuhu criticised Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration, describing it as “a monumental failure that has plunged Zamfara into chaos and economic decline.”
“Governor Lawal’s tenure is a masterclass in failure,” he said. “His reckless spending on political campaigns like Kurya’s could not hide his administration’s incompetence. From escalating insecurity to crumbling infrastructure, he has betrayed the trust of Zamfarans.”
The APC Youth Wing urged other PDP members in Zamfara to join the APC, assuring them of a party that values unity, discipline, and visionary leadership.
“We call on all well-meaning PDP members ready to walk away from the governor’s sinking ship to embrace the APC, where Dr Matawalle’s leadership offers a clear path to stability and growth,” Nuhu concluded.