The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed claims of a crisis within the party, describing those making such allegations as “attention seekers” trying to create unnecessary tension.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Yusuf Idris Gusau, said the APC in Zamfara remains united and strong under the leadership of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and other key stakeholders.
Gusau was reacting to comments made by Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi and former senator Kabiru Marafa, who had raised concerns about alleged divisions in the party. He said the two politicians were only trying to gain public attention after losing relevance in the state’s political scene.
“There is no crisis in Zamfara APC. The party is united and focused under the guidance of our leaders, including Minister Bello Matawalle, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, Senator Ahmad Sani Yarima, and former Governor Mamuda Shinkafi,” Gusau said.
He described Shinkafi and Marafa as “disgruntled elements” attempting to weaken the APC for selfish reasons. According to him, Shinkafi has turned against Matawalle despite the political opportunities he once enjoyed under him. He also alleged that Marafa’s recent attacks were due to his inability to secure political appointments.
Shinkafi, a former national secretary of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) who later joined the APC, had earlier called on President Bola Tinubu and the party’s National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, to intervene in what he called “a growing division” within the Zamfara APC. He warned that if the alleged crisis was not addressed, it could affect the party’s performance in the 2027 general elections.
But Gusau dismissed that claim, insisting that Shinkafi’s remarks were baseless and did not reflect the reality within the party.
“Our recent success in the Kaura-Namoda South State Assembly by-election is enough proof that Zamfara APC is strong, united, and loved by the people,” he added.
He maintained that the APC’s victory in that election showed the party’s readiness to face future contests with confidence.
Gusau further stressed that the unity of the APC in Zamfara was the result of continuous consultations and collaboration among major stakeholders. He said the leaders had agreed to put aside personal interests for the growth and stability of the party.
“Our leaders are working together in peace and harmony. We are focused on supporting President Tinubu’s administration and ensuring that APC continues to deliver good governance to the people of Zamfara State,” he said.
The Zamfara APC spokesman advised members of the public to disregard any reports suggesting a split within the party, describing them as attempts to distract loyal members ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Those who left the party or failed to get what they wanted should not use false claims to cause confusion. The APC in Zamfara remains one strong family,” he concluded.
However, with the federal appointment of Matawalle as Minister of State for Defence and the recent by-election victory, the APC appears to be regaining its footing in the state’s political landscape.
Gusau said the party’s focus now is to consolidate on these gains and prepare for the 2027 polls, assuring supporters that unity remains the APC’s top priority in Zamfara.
