Zamfara APC Demands Arrest of PDP Women Leader Over Threat Allegations

The Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially called for the immediate arrest of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Women Leader, Hajiya Rabi Madawaki, over allegations of inciting violence and making threats against prospective voters. The party’s demand, made public on Monday, May 19, has intensified political tension ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

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In a strongly worded statement, the APC, through its Publicity Secretary, Yusuf Idris Gusau, accused Madawaki of making “reckless and threatening remarks” during a political gathering in Gusau on May 16. The event reportedly included the presence of Zamfara State’s First Lady, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal.

According to Gusau, Madawaki allegedly issued threats in Hausa, stating that anyone who refuses to vote for the incumbent Governor Dauda Lawal in 2027 would be “maimed, beaten, or killed.” The APC described this alleged declaration as a grave violation of democratic norms and called for swift action by security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS).

“These are not just words,” said Gusau. “They are potential catalysts for violence in an already fragile political climate. We demand immediate intervention.”

He emphasized that election campaigns in a democracy should be driven by policies and constructive engagement, not threats and fearmongering. The APC further argued that such remarks undermine efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to promote peace and fairness in Nigeria’s electoral process.

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Gusau warned that if a PDP Women Leader could allegedly make such public threats without accountability, it might suggest deeper plans to suppress opposition and intimidate the electorate. He accused the PDP of emboldening supporters to adopt violent strategies, adding that such tactics erode the foundations of democratic governance.

“The law is clear. No political figure has the right to intimidate or threaten voters. Rabi Madawaki holds no official immunity and should be treated as any ordinary citizen would under similar circumstances,” the APC noted in its statement.

Reinforcing its plea, the party reminded authorities of earlier instances where armed PDP loyalists were reportedly arrested. They called for Madawaki’s statements to be included as part of a broader dossier documenting potential threats to peace during election periods.

Beyond the immediate allegations, the APC reiterated its long-standing grievances against Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration. The party accused the governor of failing to protect citizens from rising banditry and of ignoring the plight of victims of violent attacks. They also repeated claims that the 2023 governorship election was influenced by military forces in favor of the PDP, thereby undermining the electoral integrity of the state.

APC Vows to Remain an Unyielding Opposition Force

Despite the controversies, the APC asserted its determination to remain a formidable opposition voice in Zamfara. “We are undeterred,” declared the party. “No level of threat will derail our commitment to uphold the will and welfare of the people.”

As political activities intensify ahead of 2027, this latest confrontation between the state’s two major parties underscores the challenges of maintaining civility and lawfulness in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.

The PDP has yet to issue an official response to the APC’s demands or the specific allegations against Madawaki. However, political analysts warn that unless immediate steps are taken to de-escalate tensions, Zamfara could face an increasingly polarized political environment leading into the next election cycle.