Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), alleging that the party’s recent presidential primary was manipulated to favour former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Lawal announced his resignation in a statement posted on his official Facebook page on Monday, saying he could no longer remain in a party whose internal electoral process he described as compromised.
He alleged that the outcome of the primary was predetermined and that results were altered to favour Atiku and his allies.
“I am exiting the ADC because its just concluded primaries were at all levels massively rigged in favour Kachalla Abubakar Atiku,” he said.
Lawal further claimed that in some cases where voting was conducted, winners were allegedly replaced during the collation process.
“Results were just written or rewritten to favour him and his coven. Even where they allowed some semblance of election to hold, the winners were simply replaced with members of his syndicate. In the real sense it was a disgraceful charade,” he added.
He said his decision to leave the party was also informed by his unwillingness to remain part of a political structure he believes could influence future elections through similar practices.
Lawal’s resignation comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding the ADC presidential primary held on May 25, 2026, which produced Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate.
Atiku reportedly secured 1,846,370 votes to emerge winner, while former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi came second with 504,117 votes. Businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen placed third with 177,120 votes.
The primary had earlier attracted criticism from some aspirants over alleged irregularities and concerns about transparency in the process.
Before the final announcement of results, Hayatu-Deen publicly distanced himself from the exercise, citing doubts over its credibility.
Amaechi also raised concerns about the conduct of the election, alleging procedural lapses during the voting and collation process.
However, Hayatu-Deen later indicated he would not challenge the outcome, saying he preferred to prioritise party unity and the broader goal of strengthening opposition politics.
Lawal said he would consult widely with political associates on his next steps, while maintaining his opposition to Atiku’s presidential ambition.
The development adds to growing internal tensions within the ADC following its controversial primary election.
