2027: Babachir Lawal dumps ADC, says Atiku may hand Tinubu victory

By Tolulope Oke

A former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has resigned from the African Democratic Congress, ADC, over alleged irregularities in the party’s recently concluded primaries.

Lawal accused the party of manipulating the process in favour of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar.

In a statement issued on Monday, Lawal said the primaries were allegedly compromised at all levels to produce predetermined outcomes.

He said the development undermined fairness, transparency and internal democracy within the ADC.

“I am exiting the ADC because its just concluded primaries were at all levels massively rigged in favour of Kachalla Abubakar Atiku,” Lawal said.

The former SGF also accused key figures in the party of keeping quiet over the alleged manipulation.

“I sense a conspiracy of silence of which I want no part. Most members of the party are behaving as if this is the normal thing to do,” he added.

Lawal said the alleged irregularities made it impossible for him to remain in the party.

Beyond his resignation, he also rejected Atiku’s reported presidential ambition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to him, backing the former Vice-President could indirectly improve President Bola Tinubu’s chances of re-election.

Lawal questioned the judgment of opposition figures supporting Atiku, insisting that Nigeria’s leadership choices should be based on competence and national interest rather than sentiment or loyalty.

He said he would take a break from active political engagement.

The former SGF added that he would consult with his allies before deciding on his next political move.