The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology in Zamfara State, Mallam Wadatau Madawaki, has resigned from his position following the planned defection of the state governor, Dauda Lawal, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Madawaki confirmed his resignation during a telephone interview with Channels Television on Monday.
He said his decision was based on political principles, explaining that he remains a loyal member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“I only resigned because the governor is joining the APC. I’m a PDP member, I’ve never been an APC member and I’m not ready to be an APC member,” he said.
The former commissioner also denied claims that he was forced to resign, stating that the decision was entirely his.
“The governor has never forced anyone to resign. Even during the stakeholders’ meeting, he said nobody will be forced to join the party.
“I only resigned because I think it is an honourable thing to do,” Madawaki added.
Governor Lawal has accepted the resignation.
The Secretary to the Zamfara State Government, Abubakar Mohammad Nakwada, announced that the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Abdulmalik Abubakar Gajam, has been directed to oversee the Ministry of Education in an acting capacity.
The governor expressed confidence in Gajam’s ability to maintain stability and continuity in the state’s education sector.
He also thanked Madawaki for his service and wished him well in his future endeavours.
On March 9, Governor Lawal announced his decision to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to his media aide, Nuhu Anka, the decision followed extensive consultations with stakeholders, political leaders, elders, and supporters across the state.
Anka said the move was made after careful consideration in the interest of stability and development in Zamfara State.
“After careful consideration, and in the overriding interest of stability, progress, and sustainable development of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal has decided to formally defect from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress,” the statement said.
The governor explained that his decision was influenced by the prolonged internal crisis and leadership disagreements within the PDP at both national and state levels.
The statement added that he believes joining a political platform that promotes unity and cooperation with the Federal Government will improve security and development in the state.
According to the governor, such cooperation will help bring democratic dividends to the people of Zamfara State.
