Dauda Lawal, a governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), held Gusau, the capital of Zamfara state, to a standstill on Monday as thousands of his supporters defied security threats to attend his mega rally.
Lawal held the maiden rally after an appeals court in Sokoto reinstated him as the PDP governorship candidate following the nullification of his primary election by a high court in Gusau.
Thousands of PDP supporters from virtually all 14 local government areas of the APC-controlled state thronged Gusau to express their support to the party’s flagbearer.
It was observed that Gusau wore a new look on Monday following the huge crowd of PDP faithful that graced the rally.
Business activities had been paralyzed in Gusau as the crowd caused traffic gridlock around the city, especially on the roads leading to the venue of the rally.
Addressing the mammoth crowd when he arrived at the venue on an open van, the PDP candidate promised to restore peace to the state ravaged by the activities of bandits.
He also pledged to improve the economy, education, health, and agriculture in the state.
According to him, Zamfara needs robust and effective leadership to be revived, especially with the current insecurity besetting the state, and he notes that only the PDP has the wherewithal to achieve that.
“Today is a historic day.” Today, true democracy is being played. We are overwhelmed with this massive crowd. This shows that the people of Zamfara are ready and want change.
“We will not let you down.” We will not disappoint you. You know we impact your life even when we are not in power. If you elect us, we will do better.
“If you elect me as your governor, I will ensure security is restored in our dear state.” We have mechanisms and strategies to achieve that.
“I will improve security, health, economy, and agriculture—the glory of our state.” “We will restore our farming activities by God’s grace,” Lawal said.
Some of the PDP faithful that spoke to journalists said they would vote for Lawal because of his resolve to help the poor and vulnerable.
They said the candidate had impacted the lives of many of the people of Zamfara, especially the downtrodden.
“This man has never been in power, but he is doing what even the government is not doing.” He helps orphans, widows, physically challenged people, and executes many projects in communities.
“This man has offered scholarships to hundreds of students and offered empowerment to women and youths; no wonder you see this massive crowd,” said Adamu Nuhu, a PDP supporter.
Another party stalwart, Mairo Magaji, said she came from Shinkafi to witness the rally because of what Lawal is doing to people.
She said she has reserved her vote for him in order to support his attainment of power to continue serving the people of the state.
