Babachir Lawal joins NDC, backing Obi-Kwankwaso for 2027

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), endorsing the presidential ticket of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso for the 2027 elections. Lawal, who recently left the African Democratic Congress (ADC), cited concerns over Nigeria’s security, economic, and social conditions as his primary motivation for the move. NDC National Leader Seriake Dickson welcomed Lawal, noting his experience as a political mobilizer and assigning him a leadership role to strengthen the party in the North-East and North-Central regions.

In related political developments, NDC Vice-Presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso addressed fuel subsidy concerns, stating that an Obi-led administration would reintroduce a form of subsidy by investing in domestic refineries to lower petrol prices. This position contrasts with Peter Obi’s previous stance on the necessity of subsidy removal.

The NDC is also managing internal dynamics, including a dispute with the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement (OK Movement) over campaign council authority. To resolve the tension, the party granted Obi and Kwankwaso the autonomy to select their own Presidential Campaign Council officials. Meanwhile, political opponents, including the APC Presidential Campaign Council, have criticized Peter Obi’s financial record during his tenure as Governor of Anambra State, citing outstanding external loans and unpaid salary claims.