Babachir Lawal

Author: Gist Correspondent

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has announced his exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), alleging that the party’s recently concluded primaries were massively manipulated in favour of Atiku Abubakar and his associates.

In a statement announcing his decision, on Monday, Lawal accused party members of maintaining what he described as a “conspiracy of silence,” insisting that outcomes across various levels of the primaries were predetermined and altered to favour a particular political interest.

According to him, even in instances where elections appeared to have taken place, candidates who emerged were allegedly replaced by members of what he called a “syndicate,” describing the process as a “disgraceful charade.”

Lawal said his decision to leave the ADC was informed by his refusal to become part of what he described as an electoral machinery that could support alleged manipulation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He further criticised Atiku Abubakar, describing him in strong terms and expressing concern over what he called tendencies toward tribal and religious dominance. Lawal argued that aligning with such interests would indirectly strengthen President Tinubu’s chances of securing a second term.

The former SGF also questioned the political choices of northern elites, saying he expected northern leaders to prioritise governance outcomes that address poverty and insecurity rather than support what he described as ineffective leadership.

Lawal concluded by saying he would step back temporarily to reassess his political direction while consulting with like-minded associates on future political options.

Efforts to get reactions from the ADC and representatives of Atiku Abubakar were not immediately successful at the time of filing this report.