Babachir Lawal Resigns from ADC, Rejects Atiku’s Presidential Bid, Backs Tinubu
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, has resigned his membership of 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 shortly after the conclusion of the party’s presidential primary, alleging that the exercise was manipulated to favour Atiku. He claimed that the outcome of the primary election had been predetermined and described the process as lacking credibility.
According to the former SGF, he could not in good conscience remain in a party where internal democratic processes were allegedly compromised. He stated that he would not associate himself with what he described as a “rigging machine” ahead of the next presidential election.
In a strongly worded criticism of the former vice president, Lawal argued that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would offer better leadership for Nigeria than Atiku. He maintained that Atiku lacks the competence and capacity required to address the country’s numerous socio-economic and political challenges.
Lawal also accused the ADC presidential candidate of promoting divisive politics, alleging that Atiku is a tribal and religious bigot whose leadership would not foster national unity. He insisted that such attributes should disqualify anyone from occupying Nigeria’s highest political office.
The former SGF further noted that his resignation was based on principle and his commitment to democratic values, stressing that he could not support a political project he believes does not reflect transparency, fairness, and inclusiveness.
His exit from the ADC is expected to generate fresh debate within opposition political circles as preparations for the 2027 presidential election continue to gather momentum.
Neither Atiku Abubakar nor the ADC leadership had immediately responded to Lawal’s allegations as of the time of filing this report.
