Key Takeaways

• Babachir Lawal claims the APC would lose a free and fair 2027 election.
• The ADC chieftain accuses the ruling party of attempting to establish a one-party state.
• The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is currently in a legal and administrative standoff with INEC regarding party leadership recognition.
• Lawal maintains that the ADC will participate in future elections regardless of INEC’s current stance.

The Looming Political Showdown

Babachir Lawal, the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and a prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has ignited a fresh political firestorm. During a recent appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Lawal asserted that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is acutely aware of its dwindling popularity. According to Lawal, the current administration is terrified of a transparent electoral process, fearing that a free and fair contest would result in a catastrophic defeat for the party.

Lawal did not mince words when describing the ruling party’s strategy, accusing them of actively working to entrench a one-party system in Nigeria. He argued that the current economic and social climate has left the ruling party vulnerable, suggesting that the only way they can maintain power is by subverting the democratic process rather than winning the hearts of the electorate.

The INEC Standoff

The political discourse comes at a time when the ADC is embroiled in a significant conflict with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The electoral body recently suspended its recognition of the party’s National Working Committee, citing ongoing internal litigation. Despite INEC’s refusal to monitor the party’s recent national convention, the ADC proceeded with the exercise, which Lawal described as a resounding success.

Lawal dismissed INEC’s authority in the matter, emphasizing that the commission does not possess judicial powers. “We don’t listen to INEC. They are not the Appeal Court, they are not the Supreme Court,” Lawal stated, affirming that the ADC is fully prepared to challenge any attempt to exclude them.