ADC PRIMARY EXPLOSION: BABACHIR LAWAL’S EXIT SPARKS ACCUSATIONS OF RIGGING, ATIKU ABUBAKAR CAMP FIRES BACK IN SHOCKING 2027 POWER STRUGGLE

The Atiku Abubakar camp is once again at the centre of political controversy following a fiery dispute over the ADC primary, after former SGF Babachir Lawal dramatically resigned from the party, accusing its leadership of manipulating the presidential selection process ahead of the 2027 elections. The unfolding drama has exposed deep fractures within the opposition, raising fresh questions about unity, credibility, and internal democracy as political actors reposition themselves for a decisive electoral battle.

Atiku Abubakar Emerges in Storm of Rigging Allegations and Internal Revolt

Babachir Lawal’s resignation statement painted a picture of a deeply contested ADC primary, alleging that results were altered to favour Atiku Abubakar’s emergence as the party’s standard bearer. He described the process as compromised, claiming that voting outcomes were allegedly rewritten and internal mechanisms ignored in what he called a “disgraceful charade.”

He further argued that supporting Atiku Abubakar would effectively hand President Bola Tinubu an easy path to re-election in 2027, a position that has intensified political debate within opposition circles. His departure signals not only personal dissatisfaction but also growing distrust in the party’s internal structure and leadership direction.

Atiku Abubakar Camp Rejects Claims of Rigging in ADC Primary

In response, the Atiku Abubakar camp rejected the allegations, insisting that the ADC primary was conducted transparently across multiple wards and reflected a legitimate democratic outcome. They accused Babachir Lawal of only challenging the process because it did not favour his preferred political direction.

The camp further demanded evidence to support claims of manipulation, stating that no verifiable documents or witnesses had been presented. They also pointed out perceived inconsistencies in Babachir’s stance on electoral integrity, suggesting selective acceptance of outcomes depending on personal interest.

ADC Primary Crisis Deepens as Babachir Warns of Tinubu Advantage

Political analysts note that the dispute over the ADC primary reflects a broader struggle within Nigeria’s opposition landscape, where alliances remain fragile and trust between key figures continues to erode. The confrontation between Babachir Lawal and supporters of Atiku Abubakar highlights competing ambitions and strategic disagreements ahead of 2027.

There is also growing concern that continued infighting could weaken opposition consolidation efforts, potentially benefiting the ruling political structure if unresolved. The rhetoric from both sides suggests that reconciliation may be difficult in the short term, especially as personalities increasingly override party cohesion.

As the dust settles, the Atiku Abubakar camp and its critics appear locked in a prolonged battle over legitimacy, influence, and narrative control within the ADC primary saga. What happens next may determine whether the opposition enters 2027 united or further fragmented.

The Atiku Abubakar dispute over the ADC primary continues to reflect deeper tensions within Nigeria’s opposition politics, where allegations, counter-allegations, and strategic positioning are shaping the road to 2027 in unpredictable ways.