Atiku Abubakar Refutes Accusations on ADC Presidential Primaries
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has firmly dismissed claims made by ex-Permanent Secretary to the Federal Government, Babashir Lawal, regarding the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primaries, labeling them as unfounded and politically driven.
Response to Allegations Lacking Evidence
In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications, Purun Shaib, on Tuesday, Atiku’s camp accused Lawal of making serious allegations without presenting any verifiable proof. This response comes in light of Lawal’s recent criticisms questioning the transparency and credibility of the ADC’s primary election process that selected Atiku as the party’s presidential candidate for the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Reliance on Speculation and Anonymity
Shaib emphasized that Lawal’s assertions were largely based on anonymous sources and unsubstantiated claims. “Mr. Lawal spent nearly an hour making serious accusations about the conduct of the ADC presidential primary, yet he was unable to provide any verifiable evidence,” Shaib remarked, highlighting the lack of substantiation in Lawal’s statements.
Speculation Rather Than Facts
The statement from Atiku’s camp asserted that Lawal’s comments stemmed from speculation rather than concrete evidence, noting that references to anonymous whistleblowers, officials, and witnesses do not constitute proof of any wrongdoing. They further implied that Lawal’s criticism was shaped by the outcomes of the primary election and his preferred candidate’s failure to secure a nomination.
Characterizing Lawal’s Criticism
“The interview ultimately revealed not a whistleblower exposing wrongdoing, but a disappointed politician struggling to come to terms with the loss of his preferred candidate,” the statement indicated, underscoring their view of Lawal’s motivations.
Defense of Atiku’s Political Integrity
Shaib also rejected any implications that Atiku manipulated the primary results, asserting that such allegations contradict the narrative suggesting the former vice president has lost political relevance. He posited that such theories require constituents to believe that delegates and party members across the country relinquished their independent judgment in favor of a centrally directed agenda.
Controversial Comments and Broader Political Context
The statement additionally addressed Lawal’s recent remarks about President Bola Tinubu, which included a suggestion that financial assistance could be acquired from the president with a simple phone call. While Atiku’s spokesperson refrained from making explicit accusations, they implied that such comments warranted scrutiny from the public.
Highlighting Atiku’s Achievements
In defense of Atiku’s public service record, Shaib contested Lawal’s claims that the former vice president had made minimal contributions during his tenure in government. He pointed to Atiku’s instrumental role in economic reforms under former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, particularly regarding the liberalization of the telecommunications sector, privatization initiatives, and efforts to bolster private sector involvement in the economy.
Political Landscape Ahead of 2027 Elections
Atiku, who served as Nigeria’s vice president from 1999 to 2007, remains a significant figure in opposition politics, having contested several presidential elections. Political tensions are mounting among key players across party lines as discussions on opposition restructuring and coalition-building intensify in the lead-up to the 2027 elections. Lawal, formerly an ally of President Tinubu and a prominent northern politician, has recently voiced concerns about developments within the opposition, especially regarding efforts to form a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Finality of Atiku’s Response
Concluding their statement, Atiku’s camp indicated their intention to refrain from further public discourse with Lawal, asserting that the details surrounding the ADC primary process remain unchanged. “As far as we are concerned, this is the final response to Mr. Lawal’s attempt to discredit a process that has clearly resulted in unacceptable outcomes,” the statement concluded.
