Babachir Lawal Dumps ADC, Alleges Atiku Hijacked Party Primaries
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), alleging that the party’s presidential primaries were manipulated in favour of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and his allies.
Lawal announced his resignation in a statement issued on Monday, accusing the party leadership of abandoning the principles of fairness, transparency and internal democracy.
According to the former SGF, the ADC primaries were “massively rigged” to guarantee the emergence of candidates backed by powerful interests within the party.
“I can no longer remain in a party where the principles of fairness, internal democracy and equal opportunity have been sacrificed for the ambitions of a few individuals,” Lawal stated.
He alleged that genuine aspirants were denied a level playing field, while party structures and processes were manipulated to predetermine the outcome of the elections.
Lawal further claimed that repeated complaints raised by party members before and during the primaries were ignored by the leadership of the party.
The former SGF said his resignation followed extensive consultations with his supporters and political associates across the country.
He warned that the developments within the ADC could weaken the party’s credibility and undermine the confidence of members who joined the platform in search of a viable opposition alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Although Lawal did not disclose his next political destination, he said he would continue consultations with “like-minded Nigerians” committed to strengthening democracy and promoting credible leadership.
The ADC is yet to officially respond to the allegations.
