As the political landscape heats up ahead of the 2027 elections, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), sparking a contentious debate over the party's presidential primary and its implications for Nigeria's political future. Lawal's departure stems from his belief that supporting Atiku Abubakar, the ADC's presidential candidate, would inadvertently facilitate a second term for President Bola Tinubu.
Lawal's resignation highlights a growing schism within the ADC, as he stated, “Backing Atiku is akin to handing Tinubu a victory on a silver platter.” This sentiment reflects a broader concern among some party members regarding the viability of Abubakar as a candidate capable of uniting the opposition against the incumbent. The ADC, once seen as a potential alternative to the ruling party, now faces internal strife that could undermine its electoral prospects.
As the election approaches, the ADC must navigate these divisions carefully. With Lawal's resignation resonating among party loyalists, the question remains: can Abubakar consolidate support and present a formidable challenge to Tinubu, or will infighting weaken the opposition's chances?