Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has disclosed that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar tasked him with persuading Peter Obi to join the African Democratic Congress and accept the position of his running mate in the 2027 presidential election. Lawal made this revelation in an interview with Diaspora Digital Media. According to him, Atiku personally contacted him and gave him the task of approaching Obi with the proposal.
Lawal stated that Atiku's proposal included an arrangement under which the two would serve for four years and subsequently pursue a constitutional amendment to create a single six-year presidential term, which Obi would then benefit from. Lawal claimed that he went to Obi with this proposal, but Peter Obi said he was not interested. This account has sparked controversy, with Obi disputing Lawal's claims, stating that he could not have rejected an offer that was never made to him.
The disclosure comes amid continuing political realignments ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Lawal had earlier resigned from the ADC in June 2026, alleging irregularities in the party's presidential primary that produced Atiku as its candidate. Atiku's camp rejected the allegations. Lawal subsequently joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress in September and declared support for the party's Peter Obi-Rabiu Kwankwaso presidential ticket.
Lawal's revelation provides insight into the opposition negotiations that preceded the eventual divergence of the Atiku and Obi camps. The development also raises questions about the strategies being employed by various political stakeholders ahead of the 2027 presidential election. As the political landscape continues to shift, stakeholders are watching closely to see how these developments will impact the electoral process.
Peter Obi's camp has reacted to Lawal's claims, with Obi himself stating that he could not have rejected an offer that was never made to him. This has created a rift between the two camps, with each side presenting its own account of events. The controversy highlights the complexities of Nigerian politics and the often-contentious nature of political negotiations.
The 2027 presidential election is expected to be a major event in Nigeria's political calendar. With various stakeholders jostling for position, the election promises to be a closely contested one. As the campaigns gain momentum, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the various political alliances and negotiations play out.
The development has also sparked reactions from various quarters, with many Nigerians expressing interest in the unfolding drama. As the situation continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the 2027 presidential election promises to be an eventful one. Key players will need to navigate complex alliances and negotiations to emerge victorious.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar asked Babachir Lawal to persuade Peter Obi to join ADC as VP for 2027 election
- Peter Obi disputes Babachir Lawal's claims, stating that he was never made an offer
- The development highlights the complexities of Nigerian politics and the often-contentious nature of political negotiations
