Former SGF dismisses suspension claims as “a joke,” details Adamawa ADC crisis, Binani rift, and warns of voter backlash against ruling party

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, has declared that Nigeria’s 2027 general election will be a direct contest between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Nigerian people, amid deepening political tensions and opposition realignments.

In an exclusive interview, Lawal dismissed reports of his suspension from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as “a joke,” while providing detailed insight into internal disputes within the party, particularly in Adamawa State.

Lawal, a former APC chieftain and now a key figure in the opposition coalition under the ADC, said claims that he, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Barrister Sadiq Dasin were suspended reflected a lack of political understanding.

“Only in a fantasy can anyone assume they have the authority to suspend people like us. It is not something that deserves serious attention,” he said.

Adamawa ADC Crisis

Addressing the leadership crisis in Adamawa State, Lawal described the party structure he and other stakeholders met as “practically non-existent,” noting that only two out of 21 local government areas had recognised party congresses.

According to him, the absence of a functional structure necessitated the establishment of a transition committee to rebuild the party from the ground up.

“We found empty positions, no verifiable structure, and no legitimacy. From almost nothing, we started building,” he said.

Lawal explained that tensions escalated during the leadership selection process after a disputed congress involving prominent figures, including Senator Aishatu Dahiru Binani, former Governor Jibrilla Bindow, and Senator Ishaku Abbo.

He alleged that Binani walked out of the process after her preferred candidate lost the chairmanship contest to Barrister Sadiq Dasin.

“That was the beginning of the crisis,” Lawal stated.

Allegations of Parallel Structures

The former SGF further accused a rival faction of attempting to undermine party processes through parallel structures and irregular membership registration.

He alleged that forms and materials were procured outside the agreed procedures, warning that such actions could create legitimacy issues.

“Money cannot replace due process. When you bypass established procedures, you undermine the system,” he said.

Lawal maintained that Dasin remains the legally recognised chairman of the ADC in Adamawa, insisting that the congress that produced him followed due process and was not restrained by any court order.

Warning Ahead of 2027

Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Lawal predicted a major political shift driven by public dissatisfaction with the APC-led government.

“2027 will not just be another election. It will be APC versus Nigerians,” he said, adding that many citizens are determined to vote the ruling party out.

He also claimed that some politicians defecting to the APC are not fully aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda.

“Many are there physically, but politically their loyalty lies elsewhere,” he added.

Electoral Concerns

Lawal expressed strong reservations about the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral system, stating that he and his allies do not trust the current leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He warned that any perceived manipulation of election results could trigger serious national consequences.

“We have consistently demanded free and fair elections. If Nigerians sense foul play, the consequences for national stability could be severe,” he said.

Convention and Growing Momentum

Despite reported challenges during the ADC’s national convention, including venue disruptions, Lawal said the event ultimately boosted the party’s visibility and support base.

He described the turnout in several states as unprecedented, noting that many supporters mobilised themselves without financial inducement.

“People came out in large numbers on their own. That kind of support is organic,” he said.

Final Message to Nigerians

Lawal urged Nigerians to assess their living conditions and make informed decisions ahead of the next election cycle.

“Nigerians already know what to do. After four years, they can judge for themselves,” he said.

He criticised the current administration’s handling of the economy, agriculture, and security, warning that the country is facing severe challenges.

“We cannot continue like this. Nigerians will not just vote in 2027 — they will respond,” he added.