The resignation of eight members of the Zamfara State House of Assembly from the All Progressives Congress could weaken the party’s political position in the state ahead of the 2027 elections, political analyst Professor Abubakar Ahmed Abdullahi has warned.
The lawmakers announced their departure from the APC on Sunday, citing concerns including insecurity, alleged injustice, internal divisions and unpaid salaries and allowances.
Reacting to the development, Abdullahi described the lawmakers’ exit as a setback for the ruling party and warned that it could affect the APC’s mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2027 polls.
Analyst warns of wider political consequences
The eight lawmakers represent constituencies spread across Zamfara’s three senatorial districts, giving their departure potential implications for local political structures.
Abdullahi said the development could affect the political calculations of several APC figures whose support bases overlap with the constituencies represented by the lawmakers.
He also warned that unresolved internal divisions could create difficulties for the APC as it prepares for the next general election.
However, his assessment remains a political analysis and should not be interpreted as evidence that the APC will necessarily lose Zamfara in 2027.
Speaker gives different account
The political development has also generated competing narratives within the state Assembly.
Zamfara House of Assembly Speaker Bilyaminu Ismail Moriki said the eight lawmakers had been suspended since February 2024 over allegations of gross misconduct, conspiracy, mischief, contempt of the House and convening an unauthorised sitting.
Moriki said their recent decision to leave the APC should be distinguished from the disciplinary proceedings against them.
The competing positions underscore the internal political tensions surrounding the lawmakers’ departure as parties begin positioning ahead of the 2027 elections.