By Ahmed Akanbi

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has called on the African Democratic Congress, ADC, to drop former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

Lawal, in a statement posted on his Facebook page, said ADC would have a better chance of unseating President Bola Tinubu if it fields a more “credible and electable candidate.”

He alleged that the ADC presidential primary election was manipulated in favour of Atiku. According to him, the outcome did not reflect a transparent democratic process and has raised concerns among some party stakeholders.

“Despite Atiku’s political experience and national profile, he does not possess the electoral strength required to defeat the incumbent president in the next presidential contest,” Lawal said.

He urged the party leadership to review its decision before the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, deadline for submission of candidates expires.

“I would advise the ADC to replace this candidate with someone better suited for the task if the party hopes to have a realistic chance of winning the presidential election,” Lawal stated.

The former SGF also said he has faced “sustained attacks and criticism” following his earlier comments on Atiku, adding that many of his critics resorted to personal attacks instead of addressing the issues he raised.

“The reactions generated by my earlier remarks have reinforced my conviction that important conversations about leadership, competence and electoral viability must be allowed to take place within the opposition camp,” he said.

Lawal’s comments come amid ongoing consultations and political realignments among opposition figures seeking to form a coalition capable of challenging the All Progressives Congress, APC, and President Tinubu’s anticipated re-election bid in 2027.