Babachir Lawal, the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, stated that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is not under consideration for the opposition coalition aimed at contesting against President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming 2027 general election. In a televised interview, Lawal characterized the PDP as a party afflicted with an ‘incurable virus’ and asserted that it does not possess the adaptability required for meaningful political realignment.
“In all the meetings I’ve attended so far, nobody has ever bothered about adopting the PDP as the platform,” he said. “We all agree that PDP has an incurable virus. No antibiotics can cure what is ailing the PDP, and we don’t want to go into a house that we cannot modify or that is not willing to change.”
He disclosed that a technical committee is evaluating the possibility of establishing a new political party or modifying an existing one for the coalition’s purposes. He also affirmed that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar plays a significant role in the current discussions.
Lawal characterized the coalition as an expanding group of politicians united in their goal to defeat the APC in the upcoming election cycle. He mentioned that a formal announcement regarding the political platform would be forthcoming to satisfy public interest.
In a prompt reaction, the PDP rejected Lawal’s statements, labeling them as politically driven and devoid of merit.
A statement released by Yusuf Dingyadi, Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the party’s Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, indicated: “While Mr. Lawal is entitled to his personal opinions, we wish to make it categorically clear that the PDP does not seek, nor is it begging for his support or validation in shaping the future of our party or the political direction of this country.”
The party also raised concerns about Lawal’s political significance, asserting that his tenure in public service is more recognized for its controversies than for any enduring accomplishments.
“The same cannot be said of Mr. Babachir Lawal, whose tenure in public office is remembered more for controversies than for impact. Rather than being an asset, his political antecedents portray him more as a liability to any serious political project,” it said.
The PDP reiterated its commitment to internal reform and a broader strategy for 2027, including building alliances based on shared values and institutional integrity.
“We are moving forward with a renewed vision to restore hope, rebuild our nation, and reclaim leadership for the benefit of all Nigerians,” the statement added.
