Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has made public accusations against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, claiming he desires to be referred to as president despite never having occupied the position. Lawal expressed these sentiments while discussing his past experiences working with Atiku, whom he described as someone who expects deference and recognition from others.
Lawal's comments come as he prepares for a new political alignment ahead of the 2027 general election. Recently, he defected to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), where he is expected to support Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso for the presidential ticket. This move follows a meeting with the party's National Leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, at his Abuja residence.
Prior to joining the NDC, Lawal was a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) but resigned on June 1 after Atiku emerged as the party's presidential candidate. Lawal had openly opposed Atiku's emergence during the ADC presidential primary, alleging that the process was manipulated in favor of the former vice president.
In his resignation statement, Lawal claimed that the primary was "massively rigged" in Atiku's favor, with results altered and winners replaced. Atiku's camp rejected these allegations, maintaining that his emergence was a legitimate reflection of the primary's outcome. Atiku secured 1,846,370 votes, surpassing former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.
Lawal also expressed concerns that supporting Atiku could inadvertently strengthen President Bola Tinubu's chances of securing a second term, which he opposes. However, he later stated that if Nigerians had to choose between Tinubu and Atiku, he would support the incumbent president despite criticisms of the administration.
Lawal previously referred to Atiku as "Kachalla," a term associated with Fulani bandit leaders, criticizing Atiku's response to insecurity in the country. He questioned whether Atiku had condemned bandit attacks, highlighting his concerns about Atiku's leadership.
Lawal's political stance has involved criticism of both the Tinubu and Atiku camps. Although he has opposed the Tinubu administration on several issues, he maintains that he would prefer Tinubu over Atiku if those were the only two options before voters.
Key points
- Babachir Lawal accuses Atiku Abubakar of seeking to be addressed as president despite not being elected.
- Lawal recently defected to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and is expected to support Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.
- Lawal opposes Atiku's potential presidency, citing concerns about his leadership and response to insecurity.
