The former lawmaker, who represented Zamfara Central in the Senate, had initially defected from the APC to the ADC amid what sources described as deep internal disagreements with the ruling party’s structure in Zamfara State. His move to the ADC was publicly celebrated by his supporters, with the Senator Marafa Support Group issuing calls for mass registration into the party across the state.
However, fresh developments indicate that Marafa’s stay in the ADC was short-lived. Insiders familiar with the matter disclosed that the former senator opted to abandon the ADC after it became clear he would not be granted the party’s governorship ticket for Zamfara State ahead of the next election cycle. Following negotiations with leaders of the National Democratic Congress, Marafa was reportedly assured of the party’s governorship ticket, prompting his immediate defection to the NDC.
The rapid sequence of defections has stirred reactions within Zamfara’s political space, with analysts noting that Marafa remains a significant grassroots mobilizer whose movements could reshape alliances before the polls.
Marafa has consistently maintained that his political decisions are driven by the need to secure a viable platform to serve the people of Zamfara and address insecurity, poverty, and governance challenges in the state. His latest move to the NDC sets the stage for a new phase of political realignment in Zamfara as parties begin positioning ahead of the governorship contest.
The NDC has yet to officially unveil Marafa as its flagbearer, but party sources say an announcement is imminent following the conclusion of internal processes.
