Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has called on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to replace former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election.
Lawal made the remark while continuing his criticism of Atiku’s emergence as the party’s flagbearer, insisting that the ADC would struggle to defeat incumbent President Bola Tinubu with the former vice president as its candidate.
Lawal Questions Atiku’s Chances
According to Lawal, Nigerians have the right to scrutinise anyone seeking the country’s highest office. He argued that leadership competence and public record should remain central to political debates rather than personal attacks.
The former SGF maintained that his opposition to Atiku’s candidacy was based on his assessment of the former vice president’s ability to win the 2027 presidential election and govern effectively if elected.
Call for a New ADC Candidate
Lawal urged the ADC leadership to consider presenting a different presidential candidate before the electoral timetable closes.
He argued that the party would improve its chances in the 2027 race by fielding what he described as a more qualified candidate capable of mounting a strong challenge against Tinubu and the ruling APC.
Rift Deepens After ADC Exit
The latest comments add to the growing rift between Lawal and Atiku. The former SGF recently left the ADC, alleging that the party’s presidential primary was manipulated in favour of Atiku and his allies.
Lawal has repeatedly questioned the credibility of the primary process and has distanced himself from the party’s current direction, further deepening tensions within the opposition camp ahead of the 2027 election.
The development comes at a time when opposition parties are working to strengthen their positions ahead of the next general election, with internal disagreements continuing to shape the political landscape.
