A prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, has clarified the reasons behind his decision to honour an invitation from the state governor, Dauda Lawal of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to attend a recent project commissioning ceremony.
Addressing journalists in Gusau, the state capital, Dr. Shinkafi said his attendance was driven by a strong sense of patriotism and a desire to place the state’s development above partisan politics.
Dr Shinkafi clarified that his presence at the event should not be misinterpreted as a defection or shift in party loyalty but rather a demonstration of unity in the face of progress.
“I am still a bona fide member of the APC and will remain in the party. Let us set politics aside and put Zamfara first,” he stated.
“As a prominent APC member, I want to set the record straight. I attended Governor Dauda Lawal’s invitation to witness the commissioning of development projects, alongside other respected personalities such as former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Governor Mamuda Aliyu Shinkafi, and former Nigerian Ambassador to the UAE, Abubakar Chika Shehu Bungudu, among others,” he explained.
Dr. Shinkafi urged politicians in Zamfara to put aside partisan differences and work collectively towards the development of the state.
He also commended Governor Lawal for his performance in key sectors including education, infrastructure, and general project execution"
"Under Governor Dauda Lawal, I have seen real transformation. He has changed the narrative in Zamfara with visible developments across the state,” Shinkafi said.
He further remarked that if Governor Lawal continues with the same pace and quality of development projects, the opposition may have little chance in the 2027 elections.
“If this continues, no one will match him in 2027. The opposition will only be wasting their time,” he added.
Dr. Abdullahi Shinkafi also accused the previous administrations for awarding phantom contracts and mismanaging public funds.
“I’m not a sycophant. I’m only speaking based on what I have seen,” he said.
He thanked Governor Dauda Lawal for the invitation and reaffirmed his commitment to the APC, urging all political actors in the state to remain focused and allow the governor to discharge his duties without unnecessary distractions.
