Shinkafi Debunks N34bn Loan Claim

A prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former governorship candidate in Zamfara State, Dr Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, has strongly refuted allegations that Governor Dauda Lawal obtained a N34 billion bank loan to execute developmental projects in the state.

Describing the allegations as “a figment of the fertile imagination of misguided politicians,” Shinkafi accused the opposition of attempting to distract the governor from delivering his “rescue mission” to transform Zamfara. He emphasised that Governor Lawal has consistently maintained that no such loan was obtained.

In a press statement issued Monday, Shinkafi lauded the governor’s achievements, noting that Zamfara, under Lawal’s stewardship, has witnessed unprecedented infrastructure development and economic revitalisation.

“Gusau now looks like a proper state capital, a major shift from its underdeveloped status since Zamfara was created in 1996 by General Ibrahim Babangida’s regime,” he stated.

He highlighted several key projects, including; The ongoing construction of Gusau International Cargo Airport; Rehabilitation of township roads across the state; Upgrades to all general hospitals with state-of-the-art equipment; Construction and furnishing of 500 schools; Payment of WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB fees for students; Acquisition of an Islamic University in Shinkafi; Construction of markets, motor parks, and Emir palaces; Procurement of 50 buses for the Zamfara State Transport Authority; and the Provision of 200 vehicles to security agencies for enhanced operations.

Shinkafi described these developments as a testament to “progressive, visionary, and compassionate leadership” that is genuinely delivering the dividends of democracy.

He also revealed that former President Olusegun Obasanjo, while recently commissioning projects in the state, paid glowing tributes to Governor Lawal, describing him as an exemplary leader. According to Shinkafi, “Good governance is beyond partisan politics.

The interest of Zamfara State must come first.”

Calling on political stakeholders to support the administration, Shinkafi urged them to put aside political differences in favour of unity, peace, and development.

Looking ahead to the 2027 governorship election, Shinkafi endorsed Governor Lawal for a second term, arguing that the Zamfara Central Senatorial District, which has been historically marginalised in the governorship rotation since 1999, deserves to complete two terms.

“The people of Zamfara now have the leader they have long yearned for and truly deserve,” he added.

Shinkafi, a former National Secretary of All Progressives Alliance (APGA) and Patron of the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council, said his support for Governor Lawal was based on performance and a sincere desire to see Zamfara rise to greatness.