The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the North East is facing a deepening crisis following a public spat between former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, and Adamawa State governorship candidate, Senator Aisha. The conflict began with a Facebook post by Lawal on Monday, responding to reports that six governorship candidates of the NDC were protesting his membership and appointment as leader of the party in the North East.
Lawal alleged that the protest was orchestrated by a female governorship aspirant in Adamawa State, Senator Aisha. He claimed that two of the candidates, Professor Mohammed Sani Yahaya of Taraba and Dr Babayo Ardo of Gombe, had distanced themselves from the protest, stating that their names and signatures were used without their consent. This development has further exposed the internal divisions within the party.
According to Lawal, his membership in the NDC poses a significant threat to those working for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar within the party. He believes that his joining the party at this stage could undermine the efforts of Atiku's supporters, who are working to promote the Peter/Kwankwaso ticket. Lawal expressed confidence that the voters in the North East have taken note of the situation.
Lawal also addressed the issue of his appointment as the zonal leader, stating that he did not solicit the position but accepted it out of respect for Senator Dickson, Mr Obi, and Kwankwaso. He described the Peter Obi/Rabiu Kwankwaso ticket as having a massive lead in the North East and North Central regions. Additionally, Lawal criticized Senator Aisha for nominating and paying for all legislative candidates of the party in Adamawa for the 2027 elections.
In response to Lawal's allegations, the Senator Aisha Gubernatorial Campaign Organization issued a statement, describing his comments as "highly erratic, abusive, and self-serving." The campaign organization felt compelled to respond to correct what they termed as falsehoods and gender-based attacks. They argued that Lawal's behavior is not characteristic of a true leader, who should build bridges rather than throw insults at party candidates.
The campaign organization also questioned Lawal's claims, pointing out that he contradicted himself by acknowledging Senator Aisha's efforts in funding the party's structure in Adamawa. They highlighted that Senator Aisha had single-handedly funded the party's activities in the state, including paying for 25 House of Assembly and 8 House of Representatives candidates. This has brought attention to the significant contributions made by Senator Aisha to the party in Adamawa.
The public exchange between Lawal and Senator Aisha has raised concerns about the stability and unity of the NDC in the North East. The party's ability to present a united front in the upcoming elections may be compromised due to these internal conflicts. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the party leadership will address these issues and ensure a cohesive campaign strategy.
Key points
- The crisis within the NDC in the North East has deepened due to a public spat between Babachir Lawal and Senator Aisha.
- Lawal alleged that Senator Aisha orchestrated a protest by six governorship candidates against his membership and appointment as party leader.
- The internal divisions within the NDC may compromise its ability to present a united front in the upcoming elections.
