A northern political group has welcomed the reconciliation between Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and his predecessor, Bello Matawalle, describing the development as a stabilising factor for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement issued in Kaduna, the Northern APC Peace Agenda said the alignment between both political figures signals a shift towards unity in a state often characterised by intense political rivalry.

The group commended Matawalle for publicly declaring that he would not contest the 2027 governorship election, instead pledging support for Lawal following the governor’s recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.

According to the group’s president, Rabiu Ahmad, the decision reflects a broader commitment to party cohesion and national interest.

“This is not just a political alignment; it is a demonstration of maturity and a shared commitment to stability and progress,” he said.

He added that Matawalle’s position underscores a willingness to prioritise collective goals over personal ambition, describing it as a move that could strengthen internal party unity.

Lawal’s defection to the APC effectively brings both the incumbent and former governors under the same political platform, a development observers say could reshape the state’s political dynamics ahead of the next election cycle.

The move was formally marked at a high-profile event in Gusau, attended by senior party figures including Vice-President Kashim Shettima.

The group noted that such alignment could enhance coordination between state and federal actors, potentially influencing governance outcomes and political mobilisation in the north-west region.

The Northern APC Peace Agenda said the reconciliation could serve as a template for managing political differences within the party, particularly in regions where internal divisions have previously affected electoral performance.

It also argued that closer alignment with the federal government could improve access to support and policy coordination for Zamfara State.

While the long-term impact of the reconciliation remains to be seen, analysts suggest it signals early positioning ahead of 2027, with parties seeking to consolidate influence and minimise internal conflict.

For the APC, the coming together of key political actors in Zamfara may represent a strategic advantage, provided the unity is sustained in the lead-up to the elections.