Babachir Lawal Dumps ADC, Backs Tinubu’s Re-Election Bid
By Our Political Correspondent – Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), David Babachir Lawal, has resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following the emergence of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
Lawal announced his decision in a statement in which he strongly criticised the conduct of the ADC presidential primary, alleging that the exercise was manipulated to ensure Atiku’s emergence as the party’s flag bearer.
According to the former SGF, the outcome of the primary election was predetermined, making the process neither transparent nor credible. He maintained that he could not remain in a political party that, in his view, had been taken over to serve the ambition of a single individual.
“I cannot in good conscience remain in a party that has been hijacked to promote the ambition of one man through fraudulent means,” Lawal stated. “The primary was a sham. It was predetermined to produce a predetermined outcome. I will not be used as part of Atiku’s rigging machinery for 2027.”
The former SGF further launched a scathing attack on Atiku, questioning his suitability to lead the country. He described the former Vice President as lacking the competence, vision, and character required to govern Nigeria effectively.
Lawal also accused Atiku of promoting divisive politics, alleging that his past actions reflected tribal and religious bias.
“Atiku Abubakar lacks the capacity, vision, and moral standing to lead this country. He is a tribalist and a religious bigot whose antecedents have shown that he cannot unite Nigerians. He should not come close to the presidential office,” he said.
Having played a prominent role in the opposition coalition that adopted the ADC as its political platform, Lawal said his resignation was guided by principle and what he described as the national interest.
He subsequently declared his support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, arguing that the President possesses the experience and leadership qualities necessary to continue steering the country toward progress.
Political analysts believe Lawal’s departure could further deepen existing divisions within the ADC, which has recently been grappling with internal disputes and factional disagreements. Observers also note that his endorsement of President Tinubu may influence political alignments ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The latest development is expected to intensify political calculations among opposition parties as preparations gradually gather momentum for the next general elections.
