Former SGF claims discrepancies between results declared at local levels and figures announced in Abuja, deepening concerns over internal democracy in opposition party
By Didimoko A. Didimoko
Fresh questions have emerged over the credibility of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary following allegations by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, that the exercise was manipulated to favour the eventual winner, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Lawal, a former North-East vice chairman of the party and one of its prominent stakeholders, alleged that results announced at the national collation centre in Abuja differed from figures recorded in some local government areas, raising concerns about the transparency of the process.
Speaking during a television interview, Lawal claimed he possessed evidence showing that votes credited to some aspirants at the local level were altered before the final declaration of results.
According to him, the discrepancies were not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern that cast doubt on the integrity of the primary election.
His allegations come at a time when the ADC is struggling to contain post-primary discontent following the emergence of Atiku as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.
The controversy had earlier been heightened by complaints from former Rivers State governor and transportation minister, Rotimi Amaechi, who rejected the outcome of the primary and accused party leaders of failing to deliver the transparent process they promised delegates and members.
Lawal’s intervention has now added another layer to the crisis, particularly because of his longstanding involvement in the party and his role in its organisational structure.
The former SGF claimed that in at least one local government area, results announced by electoral officials at the polling level showed a different outcome from those eventually reflected in the national tally released by the party.
He also alleged that concerns were raised by some officials involved in the process, especially regarding results from Adamawa State, although he stopped short of naming the individuals publicly.
While Lawal did not release documentary evidence during the interview, he maintained that the materials in his possession would support his claims if subjected to independent scrutiny.
The allegations are likely to intensify debate over internal democracy within opposition parties seeking to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
Political observers note that disputes over candidate selection have historically weakened opposition coalitions in Nigeria, often creating divisions that persist long after primary elections have been concluded.
Despite the growing criticism, the ADC has stood by the outcome of the exercise, which saw Atiku defeat Amaechi and businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen to secure the party’s presidential ticket.
The party is yet to formally respond to Lawal’s latest allegations.
Meanwhile, efforts are said to be ongoing to reconcile aggrieved aspirants and party stakeholders as the ADC seeks to close ranks ahead of what is expected to be a fiercely contested presidential election.
