A major political storm is brewing within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following the dramatic resignation of the party’s North-East Vice Chairman, Babachir David Lawal.
In a blistering exit statement, Lawal accused the party leadership of manipulating its recently concluded primary elections in favor of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
His departure has added a new layer of controversy to an already tense political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Exit That Sent Shockwaves Through ADC
Lawal announced his resignation in a strongly-worded statement titled “The Kachalla Series Part 1.”
Rather than quietly leaving the party, the former presidential aide launched a fierce attack on the primary process, describing it as a “disgraceful charade.”
According to him, the exercise was allegedly manipulated from start to finish to ensure victories for Atiku and his political allies.
The allegations have immediately sparked debate about the credibility of the party’s internal democratic processes.
Claims of Altered Results and Replaced Winners
The former ADC chieftain alleged that election results were either written outright or altered after voting had taken place.
He further claimed that in locations where party members were allowed to vote, some individuals who genuinely emerged victorious were later replaced with candidates loyal to Atiku.
For Lawal, these alleged actions represented a betrayal of the democratic ideals the party claims to uphold.
Why Lawal Says He Could No Longer Stay
Beyond his concerns about the primaries, Lawal argued that remaining in the ADC would effectively make him part of what he described as a political machinery preparing for the 2027 elections.
He said his conscience would not allow him to continue supporting a process he believes undermines democratic principles.
The former Secretary to the Government of the Federation maintained that his resignation was necessary to remain true to his political convictions.
Explosive Remarks About Atiku
Perhaps the most controversial aspect of Lawal’s statement was his direct criticism of Atiku.
The former ADC leader accused the ex-vice president and his associates of pursuing what he described as ethnic and religious political interests.
He argued that supporting Atiku’s presidential ambition could ultimately strengthen the chances of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu securing another term in office.
His remarks are already generating fierce reactions across political circles and social media platforms.
Tinubu vs Atiku: A Choice Nigerians May Face Again?
Lawal painted a bleak picture of Nigeria’s political future, suggesting that the country could once again find itself choosing between two familiar political heavyweights in 2027.
He expressed concern over what he sees as a lack of fresh leadership alternatives, warning that voters may face another difficult decision if current political trends continue.
His comments have reignited conversations about whether Nigeria’s political establishment is doing enough to produce a new generation of leaders.
Retreat to the Farm, But Not Out of Politics
Despite stepping away from the ADC, Lawal made it clear that he is not retiring from public affairs entirely.
He revealed plans to consult with like-minded political associates while temporarily retreating to his village farm.
From there, he said he would closely monitor political developments and continue advocating against what he described as the return of ineffective leadership.
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The statement suggests that while he may be leaving the ADC, his political voice is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.
What This Means for ADC Ahead of 2027
Lawal’s resignation could become a significant test for the ADC as it seeks to position itself as a major force ahead of the next presidential election.
The allegations of manipulated primaries, whether proven or not, risk damaging public confidence in the party and fueling internal divisions.
More importantly, the development highlights the growing battle for influence within opposition politics as the race toward 2027 gradually begins to take shape.
For now, one thing is certain: Babachir Lawal’s departure has opened a new chapter in Nigeria’s political drama, and the ripple effects may be felt far beyond the ADC.