The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has received former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, into its fold. Lawal joined the NDC three months after quitting the African Democratic Congress, citing alleged manipulation of its presidential primary. He declared support for the NDC's presidential ticket of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso. Lawal's defection came as the NDC commenced moves to mobilise and train polling agents nationwide ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Announcing his defection to the NDC in Abuja, Babachir said Nigerians concerned about insecurity, hunger, and other challenges facing the country should support the NDC. He described the NDC as a party that represents the future, with Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso as their candidates. Lawal expressed optimism that the NDC would install Obi as president and Kwankwaso as vice president by May 29, 2027.
Receiving Lawal into the party, NDC national leader, Seriake Dickson, described him as a political mobiliser and activist with extensive experience in Nigerian politics. Dickson said Lawal would oversee the activities of the NDC and its campaigns in the northeastern part of Nigeria. He welcomed Lawal, saying the party was pleased to have him play a leadership role.
Lawal's defection came about three months after he resigned from the ADC, alleging that the party's presidential primary had been manipulated to favour former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. In his resignation statement, Lawal said he could no longer remain in a party whose primary process he described as fundamentally flawed.
The NDC has ordered its state and local government chairmen to begin compiling and harmonising lists of party agents for the forthcoming general elections. The party directed all state and LGA chairmen to immediately convene meetings with candidates and other relevant stakeholders to collate and harmonise the list of agents. This is in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026.
The NDC said the lists of agents would be scrutinised and ratified by the party leadership, including its presidential candidate and running mate, before the commencement of training. The party further directed that the final lists must be countersigned by the state chairmen and the respective candidates to authenticate the nominations and establish ownership.
The NDC's National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, said the party was fully prepared and ready for a robust, issue-based campaign, with all necessary structures firmly in place for victory. The party aims to install Peter Obi as president and Rabiu Kwankwaso as vice president in the 2027 general elections.
Key points
- Babachir Lawal joins NDC, citing concerns about insecurity, hunger, and other challenges facing Nigeria
- NDC begins mobilising polling agents for 2027 general elections
- Lawal to oversee NDC's activities in northeastern Nigeria
