Babachir Lawal: Peter Obi Was Never Fully Committed to ADC

Babachir Lawal: Peter Obi Was Never Fully Committed to ADC

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has said that Peter Obi was never fully committed to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting that the former presidential candidate’s participation in the coalition was limited and lacked full integration.

Lawal made the remarks on Tuesday during a Prime Time interview on Arise Television, where he addressed internal developments within the ADC coalition and wider political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He explained that Obi only joined the coalition after its structure had already been formed and did not fully participate in its organisational framework or long-term planning. According to him, this limited engagement contributed to concerns about the depth of Obi’s involvement.

Lawal added that party leaders made efforts to accommodate Obi within the coalition structure, including allowing him to nominate the organising secretary, a key position responsible for coordinating electoral activities and internal administration. He said the gesture was intended to promote inclusiveness and trust within the party system.

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Despite these efforts, Lawal stated that doubts remained over Obi’s commitment to the coalition’s processes, particularly regarding his willingness to fully participate in internal competition and party decision-making structures.

He further suggested that Obi’s eventual exit from the coalition may have been influenced by disagreements over internal party arrangements, including expectations around contesting in competitive primaries. Lawal maintained that the ADC remains committed to internal democracy and equal opportunity for all aspirants.

He also dismissed interpretations linking his past support for Obi during the 2023 presidential election to continued political alignment, stressing that such support was based on circumstances at the time rather than long-term political loyalty. According to him, his political decisions are guided by personal conviction rather than allegiance to individuals.

The comments come amid ongoing debates within Nigeria’s opposition space, where coalition-building efforts continue to face challenges over leadership structure, candidate selection, and strategic direction ahead of the 2027 elections. All Progressives Congress (APC) remains the dominant political force as opposition parties seek unity.

Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi remains a key figure in opposition politics, with his alliances and political direction closely watched across the country.

No official response has been issued by Obi regarding Lawal’s latest remarks.

 

Babachir Lawal: Peter Obi Was Never Fully Committed to ADC