The political battle inside Nigeria’s opposition ranks has taken a dramatic turn, and this time, the gloves are completely off.
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has launched perhaps his most explosive attack yet on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, declaring that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is heading for defeat in 2027 unless it replaces its presidential candidate.
For Lawal, the issue is no longer about party loyalty or political friendship. It is about what he believes is the future of Nigeria.
Fallout From ADC Exit Deepens Political Rift
Days after severing ties with the ADC following a bitter fallout over the party’s presidential primary, Lawal has returned to the public space with fresh accusations and direct criticism of Atiku Abubakar’s political relevance.
In a strongly-worded statement titled “My Kachalla II,” the former SGF questioned whether the ADC can realistically mount a serious challenge in 2027 with its current structure and leadership choices.
His message was blunt: without a change at the top, the party is headed for political irrelevance.
‘Silence On Killings Is Unacceptable’ — Lawal Raises Tough Questions
Beyond internal party politics, Lawal focused heavily on what he described as a troubling silence from Atiku Abubakar on national tragedies.
He questioned why the former Vice President has allegedly not been more vocal in condemning killings, kidnappings, and terrorist attacks across different regions of the country.
According to him, leadership is not only about ambition but also about moral responsibility in moments of national crisis.
He referenced several violent incidents across Nigeria, arguing that public office seekers must be consistently vocal when citizens are under attack, regardless of where the victims come from.
Ethnic Politics Or National Leadership? The Bigger Question
Lawal escalated the debate further by questioning whether political responses to insecurity are influenced by ethnic or regional considerations.
He argued that Nigerians have a right to interrogate the mindset and national outlook of anyone seeking to lead a diverse country like Nigeria.
For him, the presidency requires more than political experience—it demands emotional connection and visible empathy across all regions.
Business Reputation And Competence Under Scrutiny
The former SGF also questioned Atiku Abubakar’s reputation as a businessman and long-standing public figure.
While avoiding specific new evidence, he raised concerns about the public perception of some of Atiku’s business interests and asked whether Nigerians should take everything at face value when evaluating political candidates.
He insisted that competence, character, and transparency must remain central in national leadership conversations.
‘ADC Must Replace Him’ — Lawal Issues Direct Warning
In what is likely to deepen tensions within the opposition, Lawal openly advised the ADC to reconsider its presidential direction ahead of 2027.
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According to him, the party still has time to reposition itself but only if it fields what he described as a more “qualified” and broadly acceptable candidate.
He warned that failure to do so could cost the party any realistic chance of electoral success.
Political Firestorm Far From Over
Lawal also dismissed criticisms from Atiku’s supporters, insisting he would not be intimidated or silenced by attacks.
He maintained that his position is rooted in concern for Nigeria’s future and not personal animosity.
With opposition politics already fracturing ahead of 2027, his comments are expected to further inflame tensions within the ADC and beyond.
For now, one thing is clear: the political war between Babachir Lawal and Atiku Abubakar has escalated into one of the most contentious opposition battles of the season.