The drums of political rebellion are resonating once more — this time, they are reverberating from Yola. Babachir David Lawal, the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and now the National Vice Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has launched a fierce critique against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), labeling it a “sanctuary for EFCC fugitives.”
The weekend in Adamawa was anything but subdued. During an ADC stakeholders’ meeting, Lawal — who was once regarded as one of the APC’s most trusted allies — unleashed a torrent of fiery rhetoric and passionate conviction against his former party. His statements transcended mere criticism; they served as a condemnation of what he termed a corruption-riddled system disguised as governance.
“I firmly believe that more patriots will soon align with us as the PDP self-destructs and the APC continues to be a refuge for EFCC fugitives,” Lawal proclaimed to resounding applause.
This was not the discourse of a diplomat — it was the expression of a man weary of political duplicity. Lawal’s comments delineated a stark contrast between Nigeria’s current political landscape and the future he envisions under the ADC: a future he asserts must be characterized by patriotism, accountability, and visionary leadership.
For an individual who once occupied a central position within Nigeria’s power hierarchy, Lawal’s shift from establishment insider to opposition advocate is nothing short of remarkable. His allegations strike at the very core of the ruling party — that the APC, which was once founded on the principles of change, has morphed into a haven for the very corruption it pledged to combat.
He did not cease his critique there. Lawal also forecasted a political upheaval in 2027, confidently asserting that both the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) — Nigeria’s two leading political entities — will be overwhelmed by a surge of public outrage and disenchantment. “This is sheer delusion because it will not occur,” he remarked regarding the APC’s purported efforts to manipulate upcoming elections. “Nigerians will support us in thwarting any illicit manipulation of the 2027 elections.
It was a declaration of war — not merely against corruption, but against Nigeria’s long-standing duopoly of power. Coming from an individual who once contributed to the establishment of the APC, his statements possess both credibility and impact.
Lawal’s message transcended national boundaries; it was also deeply personal to his home state, Adamawa. He directed pointed criticism at Governor Ahmadu Fintiri and the PDP-led administration, accusing them of extravagance, vanity projects, and ineffective governance. “In over six years of PDP rule, all we have are a few flyovers accommodating minimal traffic despite billions of naira flowing into the state,” he remarked. “At times, I question whether the funds actually travel from Abuja to Yola.”
He substantiated his critique with statistics — asserting that Adamawa received over ₦128.81 billion between January and June 2025 — yet, according to him, the populace has witnessed little advancement beyond four flyovers and one underpass. It was a harsh depiction of what he termed “elitist governance” that is out of touch with the needs of everyday citizens.
However, beyond the criticisms, Lawal’s address served as a moral appeal. He characterized the ADC as a political haven for “visionaries and patriots” committed to rescuing Nigeria from impending disaster. “Every patriotic Nigerian now recognizes that our nation has reached the brink of a precipice,” he stated. “The ADC presents a chance to make a U-turn, recalibrate, and steer governance towards a progressive, people-oriented system.”
Nevertheless, Lawal issued a firm warning to his own party: the ADC must not become a sanctuary for opportunists fleeing from other political factions. “Not every politician will be welcomed,” he warned. “We will not permit those with corrupt and undemocratic tendencies to taint our principles.”
As Nigeria moves steadily towards 2027, Babachir Lawal has unequivocally stated his stance — the time for political immunity regarding corruption must come to a close. His address in Yola transcended mere campaign rhetoric; it served as a clarion call for a nation struggling under the burden of poor governance.
It remains to be seen if the ADC can fulfill this promise. However, one fact is undeniable: Lawal has issued a challenge, and the struggle for the political integrity of Nigeria has only just commenced.
