Babachir Lawal quits ADC, slams Atiku over ‘rigged’ primaries

The former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), alleging manipulation of the party’s recently concluded primaries in favour of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

Lawal announced his resignation from the ADC via a statement issued on Monday, June 1, 2026.

The former SGF stated that the primary election was marred by irregularities, alleging that outcomes were altered to benefit Atiku and individuals loyal to him.

He said the conduct of the exercise had undermined confidence in the party’s internal democratic process and influenced his decision to leave.

‎Lawal said he could not remain in a party where, according to him, legitimate winners were allegedly sidelined and replaced by preferred candidates.

Lawal also expressed disappointment over what he described as the silence of party members in the aftermath of the primaries.

Lawal stated: “I am exiting the ADC because its just concluded primaries were at all levels massively rigged in favour of Kachalla Abubakar Atiku.

“I sense a conspiracy of silence of which I want no part. Most members of the party are behaving as if this is the normal thing to do.”

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The former SGF equally declared that he would not support Atiku’s 2027 presidential ambition, saying backing the former vice president would weaken efforts to unseat President Bola Tinubu.

He added that such a political arrangement could ultimately benefit the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general election.

Lawal further questioned the judgement of politician supporting Atiku, raising concerns about the former vice president’s suitability for the country’s highest office.

Lawal argued that the North should prioritise competence and effective leadership in addressing challenges such as insecurity and economic hardship.

The former SGF announced that he would temporarily withdraw from active politics while consulting with associates on future political strategies.