Defector Accuses State Government of Injustice, Neglect
The political landscape in Zamfara State took a dramatic turn on Tuesday as Maharazu Salisu, the member representing Maradun II Constituency in the State House of Assembly, dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC), taking along over 1,000 supporters and all PDP ward executives from his constituency.
The defection, which was formally announced at the APC State Secretariat in Gusau, dealt a major blow to the ruling PDP, which has been struggling to keep its ranks intact amid growing discontent across the state.
Addressing the crowd of cheering supporters, Salisu said his decision was driven by “injustice, lack of fairness, and outright neglect” by the PDP-led government in Zamfara.
“Despite the overwhelming support Maradun II gave the PDP during the 2023 elections, our constituency has been completely sidelined — no appointments, no projects, no dividends of democracy,” he lamented.
The lawmaker listed prominent PDP ward executives who defected with him, including Ahmad Lawal (Magami Ward), Lawal Tsibiri (Tsibiri Ward), Sanusi Ahmad and Shehu DanAbu (Gidangoga Ward), and representatives from Maya Ward, along with senior PDP chieftain Salis Dodo.
Receiving the defectors, APC State Chairman, Alhaji Tukur Danfulani, welcomed them warmly, assuring full integration and equal treatment within the party’s structure.
“This is just the beginning,” Danfulani said confidently. “Before the end of the year, more PDP members will join our great party.”
He instructed APC officials at all levels to accommodate the new entrants and ensure their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
Also speaking, former APC State Chairman, Lawali Liman, commended the leadership of Senator Abdulaziz Yari and Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, for sustaining the party’s strength and influence in the state.
“The APC in Zamfara is regaining its structure and momentum,” Liman declared. “With unity and commitment, victory is inevitable."
The massive defection is seen as a significant political boost for the APC ahead of the next electoral cycle, further tilting the state’s political balance against the ruling PDP.
