- Nigerians deserve to scrutinise the character, leadership qualities and public record of anyone seeking to become president
- He maintained that citizens have a right to assess the competence and track record of political aspirants
- His comments add to the growing debate within opposition circles over political alliances
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has argued that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) may struggle to secure victory in the 2027 presidential election if it retains former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar as its flag bearer.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that Lawal made the remarks in a statement titled My Kachalla II, which he said was issued in response to criticism and threats that followed his earlier comments about Atiku and the party.
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The former SGF questioned Atiku’s suitability for the nation’s highest office, insisting that Nigeria requires a leader with a broader national outlook capable of addressing the country’s diverse social, ethnic and religious realities.
He also criticised what he described as Atiku’s limited public response to incidents of insecurity across various parts of the country, including attacks by bandits, kidnappers and other armed groups.
According to Lawal, Nigerians deserve to scrutinise the character, leadership qualities and public record of anyone seeking to become president.
He questioned whether Atiku had shown sufficient concern over violent attacks affecting different communities across the country, citing incidents in the North-Central, North-West and other regions.
Lawal further raised concerns about the former vice-president’s business credentials, questioning the current state of some ventures previously associated with him.
He maintained that citizens have a right to assess the competence and track record of political aspirants, especially those seeking to occupy the office of Commander-in-Chief.
The former SGF stated that his criticisms should not be interpreted as personal hostility but as part of a broader conversation about leadership and governance.
He urged the ADC leadership to consider presenting what he described as a stronger and more broadly acceptable candidate if the party hopes to mount a serious challenge in the next presidential election.
Lawal also insisted that he would continue to express his views on national issues despite opposition from supporters of the former vice-president.
According to him, his interventions are driven by concern for Nigeria’s future and the need for accountable leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections.
His comments add to the growing debate within opposition circles over political alliances, party strategies and the search for viable candidates as preparations for the next electoral cycle gather momentum.
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