Six Zamfara Lawmakers Defect from PDP to APC.

Six serving members of the Zamfara State House of Assembly have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing alleged constitutional breaches, internal crisis, and poor management of the legislative arm as reasons for their decision.

The lawmakers announced their defection on Wednesday night, December 24, 2025, in Gusau, the state capital, following extensive deliberations.

Speaking jointly, the legislators accused the Zamfara State House of Assembly of operating in disregard of constitutional provisions, alleging that, the legislature had been reduced to an extension of the executive arm of government and a rubber stamp for Governor Dauda Lawal.

They further claimed that, they had been illegally suspended for nearly two years, a development they said had denied their constituents representation. 

According to them, the situation compelled them to form a parallel House of Assembly to challenge what they described as unconstitutional actions by both the executive and the faction of the legislature recognised by the state government.

The defecting lawmakers include the factional Speaker of the House, Bashar Aliyu Gummi (Gummi I), Nasiru Abdullahi Maru (Maru North), Bashir Abubakar Masama (Bukkuyum North), Bashir Bello (Bungudu West), Amiru Ahmad Keta (Tsafe West), and Muktar Nasir Kaura (Kaura North).

They alleged that, in their absence, the remaining faction of the House had been passing resolutions and laws without the constitutionally required quorum, insisting that such actions were null and void.

The lawmakers called on the National Assembly to intervene by investigating the situation and taking steps to ensure the restoration of order and adherence to the rule of law in the Zamfara State legislature.

They explained their decision to join the APC, were attracted by the party’s principles of justice, fairness, inclusiveness, and political harmony, which they believe would enable them to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state and the welfare of their constituents.

After formally receiving the defection letters, the factional Speaker, Bashar Aliyu Gummi, congratulated the lawmakers for joining the APC.

“Following the receipt of the defection letters from the six honourable members, including myself, I wish to congratulate us for joining the All Progressives Congress. May this decision usher in progress, success, and development for Zamfara State and Nigeria at large,” he said.

Gummi described the defection as a bold and wise step capable of promoting political stability and prosperity.

They further accused Governor Dauda Lawal of failing to adequately address insecurity in the state, alleging that his attention was focused on political rivalries rather than governance.

The lawmakers said their defection was in line with the provisions of Section 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which they said guaranteed their right to freedom of association.

First Lady of Zamfara State, Huriyya Dauda Lawal, Conferred with Prestigious Royal Tittle of Yar Gojen Dansadau

The First Lady of Zamfara State, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, has been conferred with the revered royal title of Yar Gojen Dansadau by the Sarkin Kudun Dansadau, Alhaji Garba Muhammad Sarkin Kudu Atu II, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to social development, women empowerment, and humanitarian services.

The honour was bestowed during a courtesy visit by the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, to the palace of the Sarkin Kudu in Dansadau, Maru Local Government Area.

In a statement by her Press Secretary, Rabi Yusuf said the title Yar Gojen Dansadau translates to “Queen of the Women of Dansadau,” reflected the First Lady’s sustained efforts in advancing the welfare of women, children, and vulnerable groups across Zamfara State through inclusive, people-centred initiatives.

According to the statement, since assuming office, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal has demonstrated purposeful leadership through impactful social intervention programmes and consistent engagement with grassroots communities, earning her widespread respect within and beyond the state.

Responding Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal expressed profound appreciation to the Sarkin Kudu, the Dansadau Emirate Council, and the people of Dansadau for the honour, described it as a collective recognition of the efforts of all stakeholders committed to building a more inclusive and prosperous Zamfara State.

The statement says, the conferment of the title underscores Hajiya unwavering commitment to service and further reinforces her resolve to continue championing initiatives that improve the lives of the people of Zamfara State.

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Disburses ₦1.9bn to 9,500 Elderly Nigerians Under Renewed Hope Initiative

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare of senior citizens, as she flag-off of the third edition of the Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS).

Speaking at the event held at the Government House in Gusau, themed Finding Joy in Old Age, Senator Tinubu described the initiative as a compassionate social investment designed to ensure that elderly Nigerians live with dignity, comfort, and joy.

The First Lady, who was represented by the First Lady of Zamfara State, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, through the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Aisha Anka, noted that since the inception of the Renewed Hope Initiative in 2023, the administration has consistently celebrated senior citizens every December in recognition of their invaluable contributions to nation-building.

According to her, under the 2025 programme, a total of 9,500 vulnerable elderly citizens aged 65 years and above across the 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as well as beneficiaries from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), will receive 200,000 naira each.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu explained that the programme involves a total disbursement of ₦1.9 billion, with ₦50 million allocated to each state, including the FCT and DEPOWA, as approved by the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative.

“As we approach the festive season, it is important that we continue to prioritise our elderly citizens. They walked difficult paths so that the younger generations could enjoy smoother roads,” the First Lady said. “It is our moral duty and our joy to ensure they live their twilight years in comfort, good health, and dignity.”

Mrs Tinubu encouraged senior citizens to remain active, find purpose in community life, and embrace compassion and care as pathways to joyful ageing. She also urged those still able to engage in charitable activities and find fulfilment in helping others.

She expressed gratitude to state governments, RHI state coordinators, and development partners for their continued support, and offered prayers for the health, peace, and wellbeing of Nigeria’s elderly population.

The First Lady wished Nigerians a peaceful festive season and expressing hope that 2026 would bring renewed hope and greater accomplishments for the nation.

Some elderly beneficiaries commended the First Lady for the gesture.

L-PRESS Procures Feed Processing Machines, Fodder Seeds for Pastoralists in Zamfara.

The Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRESS) Project in Zamfara State has procured various machines for processing livestock feed, including crushers for millet stalks, maize residues, sugarcane waste, and other crop by-products. 

The machines will be distributed to pastoralists to enhance feed processing and storage.

The State Coordinator of the project, Alhaji Nasiru Mohammed, disclosed this at the end of a two-day training on Business Models for Pasture Development, held in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital.

Alhaji Mohammed revealed that the Zamfara State Government, in collaboration with L-PRESS, has also procured fodder seeds such as lablab and vetch, which are already in stock and will be distributed to pastoralists who commit to implementing the programme.

He highlighted the importance of fodder crops, noting that, in some countries farmers have abandoned traditional crops such as sorghum, maize, and millet due to low profitability, choosing instead to focus on fodder production.

According to him, fodder crops contain essential proteins and carbohydrates that significantly enhance milk and meat production. 

Alhaji Mohammed cited examples from parts of Ethiopia, where farmers specialize exclusively in fodder cultivation as a viable economic model.

The coordinator assured participants that those who apply the knowledge gained from the training would discover new income-generating opportunities capable of improving livestock productivity.

Alhaji Mohammed emphasized that L-PRESS cannot operate effectively without key actors in the animal value chain, especially Makiyaya (pastoralists), whom he described as critical stakeholders in the project’s operations in Zamfara State.

He commended the training facilitators, particularly the team led by Dr. Ibrahim Yusuf, for their professionalism and commitment in ensuring a smooth and impactful exercise. 

He also appreciated the participants for honouring the invitation and actively participating throughout the two-day training.

The coordinator further expressed appreciation to various livestock-related associations and groups, including Miyetti Allah, Fataken Shanu, the Amalgamated Association of Cattle Dealers, Producers and Processors in Zamfara State, LIPAN, Yabanya, NAWIYA, as well as individual livestock farmers, for their support and participation.

He also praised L-PRESS staff for their dedication, stressing that the project’s success is a collective effort built on teamwork rather than individual contributions. 

He acknowledged the role of journalists and security agencies for their continued support in information dissemination and the protection of L-PRESS activities.

Alhaji Mohammed urged participants to put into practice what they had learned during the training. 

He observed that although some participants had long been involved in livestock farming, many were previously unaware of the economic value of certain animal feeds. 

He explained that not all grasses and crop residues are beneficial, but the training enabled participants to distinguish between useful and non-useful feed resources.

He assured participants that L-PRESS would closely monitor beneficiaries to ensure proper implementation of the training outcomes, urging them to apply the knowledge gained so that others could learn from their success and benefit from the programme.

In their various contribution, some participants expressed profound gratitude to the L-PRESS for the impactful training which they said it would go along way in improving feed processing among others in the value chain.

Zamfara First Lady Distributes 2025 Christmas Packages.

The First Lady of Zamfara State, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, has distributed Christmas welfare packages to women groups, and several other community groups in the state aimed at easing the festive season burden on families.

Speaking during the distribution held at government House Gusau, the First Lady described the gesture as a token of appreciation for the continuous support given to Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration. 

She praised the women for their unwavering dedication, noting that, they remain pillars of peace, strength, and progress communities communities.

The welfare items distributed included cash gifts, rice, pasta, sugar, cooking oil, and other essential commodities.

Hajiya Huriyya urged beneficiaries to share the items with fairness and the fear of God, emphasizing that, the initiative was designed to support and uplift households across Zamfara State.

She expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the women and groups present, praying that the Christmas season will brings blessings, peace, and prosperity to every home.

“May Allah reward you abundantly,” she added.

Hajiya Huriyya reaffirmed her commitment to championing programmes that uplift women, strengthen families, and enhance community development. She also commended the women leaders, government officials, and organisational representatives present for their dedication and collaboration.

Representatives of some of the beneficiaries, including Mrs. Martila Udowella of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lolo Ugueze Theresa Obijiaku, wife of the Chief of Igbo Community in Gusau and Mrs Esther Ariyo of the Yoruba Women Community, expressed their gratitude to the First Lady for her kindness and generosity.

Other beneficiaries expressed deep appreciation to the wife of the Governor for the gesture and Reaffirmed their commitment to continue supporting the progress of the State.

The event attracted prominent women leaders, government functionaries, and representatives from various associations and security agencies.