The Zamfara Good Governance Group (ZGGG) has praised the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, for ensuring that the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains a strong political force in Zamfara State following the recent bye-election.
In a statement issued on Sunday, ZGGG President, Murtala Abdullahi, commended Matawalle for his role in sustaining the APC’s grassroots strength even after leaving office as governor two years ago.
Abdullahi said the results collated by independent observers so far were a testament to the minister’s enduring political influence and commitment to his party.
“Despite not holding the reins of state government, Matawalle has shown uncommon leadership and loyalty to the APC.
The bye-election has once again demonstrated his firm connection with the people and his ability to inspire confidence in our great party. Zamfara remains firmly rooted in the APC because of the structures and trust he built during his tenure,” Abdullahi said.
The group noted that the electoral process was marred by attempts from the current deputy governor, chief of staff to the governor, some commissioners, and other senior government officials to tilt the contest, but praised APC supporters for standing their ground in defence of their votes.
“Zamfara people stood tall in the face of undue pressure. Supporters of our party displayed courage, resilience, and faith in democracy.
Their determination to protect their choice is commendable and has ensured that the APC continues to show dominance in Zamfara’s political space,” Abdullahi stated.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared the bye-election inconclusive due to irregularities in some polling units and announced that a new date for the supplementary poll would soon be fixed.
The ZGGG urged the commission to maintain transparency in the process and guarantee that the final outcome reflects the will of the people.
“Democracy must be defended at all costs. We call on INEC to ensure that the supplementary election is free, fair, and credible.
The people of Zamfara have spoken, and their voice must not be silenced by manipulation or malpractice,” Abdullahi added.
The group also highlighted the importance of Matawalle’s continued involvement in the affairs of Zamfara despite his national responsibilities as Minister of State for Defence.
Abdullahi said the minister’s accessibility and grassroots engagement had kept the APC united and motivated.
“Matawalle’s presence is still strongly felt in Zamfara.
His ability to balance his role at the federal level with his commitment to his home state has kept the party machinery active and formidable.
This is why, even in a challenging electoral environment, the APC continues to perform strongly,” he noted.
The ZGGG further urged APC members and stakeholders to consolidate on the momentum by closing ranks and working for the collective interest of the people.
Abdullahi emphasised that internal unity and focus on service delivery would strengthen the APC ahead of future elections.
Abdullahi concluded by reaffirming the ZGGG’s support for Matawalle and the APC, insisting that the minister’s contributions to the party and the state would remain a reference point in Zamfara’s political history.
“The legacy of resilience and commitment that Matawalle represents is the reason Zamfara continues to stand with the APC.
We are confident that the final result will confirm the people’s choice,” Abdullahi said.
The group also called on security agencies to provide adequate protection for voters during the supplementary poll, stressing that the courage displayed by citizens in the initial exercise must not be undermined.
“Zamfara people deserve a credible electoral process that reflects their will.
We trust that INEC will soon announce a date for the supplementary election and that the voices of our people will ultimately prevail,” Abdullahi added.
