Atiku Slams Babachir Over ‘Ethnic Politics’, Defends National Record
Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has strongly criticised former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, accusing him of promoting ethnic profiling and divisive politics.
In a statement issued on Sunday through his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described Babachir’s recent remarks against him as reckless, contradictory, and rooted in prejudice rather than facts.
The former Vice President said it was dangerous to associate an entire ethnic group with criminality because of the actions of a few individuals, warning that such narratives could deepen divisions and threaten national unity.
According to Atiku, Babachir’s position was ironic, considering that he previously served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, whom he noted is also Fulani. He argued that Babachir willingly accepted the appointment and privileges of office at the time, making his current attacks appear politically motivated.
Atiku also pointed to what he called inconsistencies in Babachir’s public conduct, noting that while criticising him, the former SGF was simultaneously granting interviews claiming that several governors were trying to lure him back to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He questioned which version of Babachir Nigerians should believe; the one portraying himself as a victim of political conspiracies or the one boasting about his political relevance.
Responding to allegations that he had ignored victims of violence, Atiku maintained that he had consistently condemned terrorism, kidnappings, banditry, and communal attacks across the country, irrespective of ethnicity or religion.
He recalled attending a church thanksgiving service in Kagoro, Southern Kaduna, after a violent attack, saying leadership should focus on compassion and unity rather than tribal or religious sentiments.
Atiku further cited his support for some of the released Chibok schoolgirls through scholarships at the American University of Nigeria, noting that several beneficiaries had successfully graduated.
Defending his competence as a businessman and leader, the ADC candidate pointed to his investments in different sectors and the establishment of the American University of Nigeria as evidence of his contribution to national development.
He concluded by accusing Babachir of allowing bitterness and resentment to shape his public comments, stressing that Nigeria needed leadership built on unity and purpose rather than division and hostility.
