Defence Minister Matawalle gives vehicles to eight Zamfara APC lawmakers

Vehicle donation for returning lawmakers On 21 October 2026, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, presented eight vehicles to members of the Zamfara State House of Assembly who had recently re‑joined the All Progressives Congress (APC). The gesture was made in the state capital, Gusau, and was intended to help the lawmakers travel more easily between their constituencies and the assembly.

Context of the donation The donation follows a broader reconciliation campaign within the APC in Zamfara. According to Punch, the move is part of efforts to reunite aggrieved members and strengthen the party’s structure ahead of the 2027 general elections. President Bola Tinubu reportedly directed the lawmakers to return to the party and work toward unity, a directive that Matawalle acted upon by arranging the immediate release of the vehicles.

Reactions from party officials Yazid Danfulani, Managing Director of the Nigeria Agricultural Insurance Corporation, spoke at the ceremony. He said the gift reflected Matawalle’s commitment to reconciliation and party unity, and that the minister had continued to engage APC stakeholders to promote understanding, cooperation and cohesion. The lawmakers themselves expressed gratitude; Aliyu Kagara, representing the group, thanked Matawalle and pledged their support for Tinubu’s re‑election bid.

Implications for the 2027 elections By providing the vehicles, Matawalle aims to facilitate the lawmakers’ return to Zamfara and enable them to mobilise supporters more effectively. The donation is seen as a tangible sign of the APC’s willingness to reintegrate former members and consolidate grassroots support before the upcoming elections.

Summary of the event The event, held in Gusau, saw eight cars handed over to eight returning lawmakers. It was a clear demonstration of the federal government’s involvement in state‑level party politics and an attempt to smooth internal divisions within the APC. The gesture is expected to help the lawmakers reconnect with their constituents and strengthen the party’s electoral prospects in Zamfara for 2027.