The African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has rejected allegations made by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, over the conduct of the recent presidential primary of the party.
Recall that NPO reported that Babachir had earlier announced his resignation from the ADC, alleging widespread manipulation during the presidential primary that produced Atiku Abubakar as its flagbearer for the 2027 general elections
Atiku’s media office in a statement said while Lawal had every right to leave the party, he was not entitled to make fabricated and brazen lies against the former vice president.
According to the media office, allegations that Atiku is a religious bigot or promotes nepotism are unfounded and inconsistent with his political record.
The statement described Atiku as one of Nigeria’s most liberal politicians, noting that his public service record is available for scrutiny by Nigerians.
The former vice president’s camp also accused Lawal of projecting his own character traits onto Atiku, claiming that the former SGF often exploits ethnic and religious sentiments to advance personal political interests.
It further alleged that many of Lawal’s political disputes stem from self-interest rather than concern for national development.
Responding specifically to claims that the ADC primary was rigged, Atiku stated that Lawal failed to provide any evidence to support the allegations.
The statement noted that instead of presenting proof of electoral malpractice, the former SGF resorted to personal attacks and comments about Atiku’s family.
It also cautioned against narratives capable of deepening ethnic and religious divisions, stressing that political parties in Nigeria should not be viewed through sectarian lenses.
According to the statement, any party member dissatisfied with the outcome of an internal election should follow established procedures by submitting evidence and lodging formal complaints through the appropriate channels.