Internal frictions rocking the Zamfara chapter of the All Progressives Congress have triggered the exit of two members of the state House of Assembly, escalating concerns over renewed political shifts in the state.
Their resignations place fresh scrutiny on the party’s internal management as tensions continue to unfold.
The departure of both lawmakers stems from what they described as long-standing disputes and leadership failures that have destabilised the party and alienated loyal members.
Their resignation letters, dated December 3 and addressed to the Assembly leadership, were read during plenary proceedings by Speaker Bilyaminu Moriki in Gusau, the state capital.
Shamsudeen Hassan, lawmaker representing Talata-Mafara North Constituency, expressed dissatisfaction with the political environment within the APC, stating that the party has “drifted off course” from its original values.
He explained that continued membership had become “a disservice to the aspirations of the people who entrusted me with their mandate.”
He emphasised that persistent divisions and what he described as “a culture of exclusion” convinced him that the APC no longer aligned with his priorities or those of his constituency.
“When leadership stops listening, representation loses its meaning,” Hassan added, insisting the decision was crucial for the future of his supporters.
Similarly, Nura Dahiru, who represents Birnin-Magaji Constituency, remarked that his resignation would enable him to pursue a political direction that guarantees better outcomes for his people.
He noted that the time had come to “follow a platform where public interest stands above internal power tussles.”
Both lawmakers expressed appreciation to the APC for the roles they previously played within the party and requested their letters be documented as official notifications of departure.
However, the political shift did not end with the resignation. Moments after his exit announcement, Dahiru officially declared his defection to the Peoples Democratic Party in Zamfara.
He described the move as “a homecoming to a party that values collective progress.”
The resignations are already sparking discussions among political observers regarding possible realignments ahead of future elections.
With increasing concerns over cohesion within the Zamfara APC, stakeholders predict a period of intense restructuring and negotiations as the party works to regain stability.
Party defections remain a significant feature of Nigeria’s political landscape, but the timing of these exits places a spotlight on internal party democracy and the role it plays in influencing political loyalty.