Eight Zamfara State House of Assembly lawmakers who previously left the All Progressives Congress (APC) are set to return to the party after meeting President Bola Tinubu, with Bello Matawalle also involved.
Across the reports, the lawmakers are described as having reaffirmed loyalty to APC and Tinubu following the meeting. A statement cited by Nigerian Eye says Matawalle pledged to integrate the lawmakers into the “Tinubu Again Movement” and have them work with Tinubu and APC candidates ahead of forthcoming elections. Premium Times similarly frames the move as a “U-turn” tied to the Tinubu meeting, noting it was held in a closed-door session at the Presidential Villa.
The earlier reasons for leaving are also included. Nigerian Eye reports that the lawmakers departed citing worsening insecurity, alleged injustice, and unpaid salaries and allowances. It also says Zamfara Assembly Speaker Bilyaminu Moriki later stated the lawmakers were suspended before they defected, in connection with allegations including misconduct and holding an illegal sitting. The Punch focuses on Northern APC elders praising Tinubu and Matawalle over the lawmakers’ return.
