Political Earthquake: Babachir Lawal Shakes Up 2027 Race, Joins NDC After Dumping ADC

Barely three months after resigning his membership from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, has officially joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). His defection was announced by the party's Director of New Media and Strategic Communications, Agada Abuh Theophilus, on Tuesday, following a closed-door meeting with the NDC National Leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, and members of the National Working Committee in Abuja.

Lawal’s latest political move is rooted in his continuous dissatisfaction with the choices made by his previous parties regarding their presidential candidates. He had previously dumped the ADC over alleged manipulation of the party’s presidential primary election, which he claimed favored former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Prior to that, as a chieftain of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), Lawal stated he remained with the party when late former President Muhammadu Buhari was the presidential candidate, whom he assessed as a man of integrity. However, his position changed when the APC subsequently nominated a presidential candidate whom he alleged did not prioritize Nigeria’s interests, stating, “APC decided to put forward a presidential candidate that prefers self rather than Nigeria.”

Upon joining the NDC, Lawal declared his full support for the party's presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, ahead of the 2027 general election. He called on all Nigerians concerned about the nation's prevailing challenges, including insecurity, hunger, ignorance, and disease, to support the NDC. Lawal emphasized that any sensible and patriotic Nigerian ought to partner with the NDC to fulfill the objective of installing Obi as president and Kwankwaso as vice president, looking forward to May 29, 2027, for a celebration for the good of the country and future generations.

Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, while formally welcoming Lawal into the NDC, lauded him as a political mobiliser and activist with extensive experience in Nigerian politics. Dickson highlighted Lawal's deep understanding of political dynamics, noting that he has witnessed parties that promised change but ultimately failed, leading the country from a top position to a precarious state. On behalf of the national working committee and the presidential candidates, Dickson expressed pleasure in having Lawal play a significant leadership role. Lawal is expected to oversee the activities of the NDC and its campaigns in the North Eastern part of Nigeria, providing guidance and direction to candidates and campaigns in those zones.