Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal warned Nigerians against voting for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2027 presidential election. Lawal made the remarks during recent public statements and interviews after he resigned from the African Democratic Congress.
Lawal urged the African Democratic Congress to replace Atiku Abubakar as its presidential candidate. He argued that Atiku lacked the qualities needed to defeat President Bola Tinubu. Lawal described Atiku as unfit and warned that his emergence could harm the opposition’s chances.
“Indeed I would urge the ADC to replace this man with a more qualified candidate if they want to have any hope of winning the presidential election,” Lawal stated. He added that Atiku’s continued ambition posed risks to the party’s prospects before the Independent National Electoral Commission timetable closed.
Lawal raised specific issues about Atiku’s response to security challenges. He asked whether Nigerians had seen Atiku condemn bandit attacks. Lawal claimed Atiku showed indifference to victims of violence across the country. He positioned these concerns as reasons for Nigerians to avoid supporting Atiku’s bid.
Lawal’s comments sparked reactions from Atiku’s camp. Atiku’s team dismissed the criticisms as driven by bitterness. They defended Atiku’s record on condemning terrorism and supporting victims regardless of background.
The exchange highlighted deep divisions within the opposition as parties prepared for 2027 contests.
Lawal also leveled allegations about the party’s primary process and urged a fresh candidate. His warnings reflected ongoing tensions in Nigerian politics as the election cycle advanced.
