2027: Ex SGF, Lawal Dumps ADC for NDC, Backs Obi–Kwankwaso Ticket

• Former SGF Babachir Lawal has joined the NDC, saying concerns over poverty, hunger and insecurity prompted his return to active politics to support Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), declaring support for the party’s Peter Obi–Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.

Lawal announced his decision at the NDC National Leader’s House in Abuja, explaining that concerns about Nigeria’s security, economy and the future of younger generations had made it difficult for him to step away from partisan politics.

The former SGF, who previously moved from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the ADC, said he had considered retirement but felt compelled to remain politically involved.

“I have been around for quite some time but having reached the position I am in politics, nobody would let me be. Nobody would let me be,” Lawal said.

“And then if nobody would let you be, I look at the future of my children, look at the future of the friends of my children, look at poverty, hunger and insecurity that my neighbours, my colleagues are living under, I find no other choice than to join a political party that puts forward Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.”

Explaining his movement between parties, Lawal said his decisions reflected his assessment of the country’s direction and the candidates each platform offered.

He recalled playing an active role in the APC before becoming dissatisfied with its direction.

Lawal said his support for Obi and Kwankwaso was rooted in his belief that their records in their respective states demonstrated their ability to lead Nigeria.

According to him, both politicians “left invaluable marks among their people,” adding that they “uplifted people, they brought security to their people, and they brought economic prosperity.”

“And it is obvious, it is clear that this pair can also do for Nigeria what they did for their states,” Lawal said.

He explained that helping Obi secure the presidency was central to his decision to return to active politics.

“So, for that, I think I have made a proper choice by coming out of my retirement and once again to help Peter Obi become the President of Nigeria,” he said.

Welcoming Lawal, NDC National Leader Seriake Dickson described the former SGF as an experienced political organiser and mobiliser.

Dickson said the party expected Lawal to take a leadership role in its campaigns across the North-East and North-Central zones.

The party also expressed confidence that his political contacts and experience would strengthen its activities nationwide as preparations gather pace for the 2027 general elections.