Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has accused the Federal Government of excluding his state from palliative support because of political differences.
The governor said Zamfara has not received any federal palliative funds since the removal of fuel subsidy.
He blamed the situation on his membership of the opposition party and not the ruling All Progressives Congress.
Speaking in a video that has since gone viral, Lawal claimed that some states controlled by the APC had received huge financial support from the Federal Government. He alleged that these funds were meant to help citizens cope with rising living costs caused by recent economic reforms.
“I know of states that have received over 500 billion Naira from the Federal Government as palliative, but I have never received anything,” the governor said. “I think the reason I don’t get it is because I’m not in APC.”
Lawal said Zamfara State has been left to struggle on its own despite facing serious economic and security challenges. He noted that his government has had to rely solely on state resources to support residents through food distribution and other welfare programs.
According to him, the palliatives introduced by the Federal Government were supposed to be shared fairly among all states, regardless of party affiliation. He stressed that citizens should not suffer because of political rivalry between different levels of government.
The governor’s comments have renewed public debate over fairness in the distribution of federal funds. Several opposition governors have also complained in recent months about delays and alleged restrictions in accessing allocations meant for local governments and state projects.
Analysts say such allegations are increasing tensions between states governed by the Peoples Democratic Party and the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Some political observers believe this situation is fueling speculation about possible defections to the ruling party in order to secure federal support.
However, Governor Lawal has dismissed claims that he plans to leave the PDP. He insisted that his focus remains on governing Zamfara and addressing the needs of the people.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Presidency nor the All Progressives Congress has issued an official response to the governor’s allegation.
