A former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has announced his resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC), adding to a series of high-profile defections from the ruling party.
Lawal, a key figure in the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who dramatically left office over issues of contract relating to grass cutting, amongst others, confirmed his resignation from the APC in a letter addressed to the chairman of the party in Bangshika Ward, Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa state.
He said he would make public his current political affiliation in due course.
Lawal wrote: “I write to formally notify you of my resignation from the All Progressives Congress, APC.
“In due course, I will make public my current political affiliation, where I plan to join compatriots to work towards making Nigeria a better living place for all citizens. This resignation takes immediate effect.
“Please remain blessed and extend my warm regards to members of your party,” he said.
While Lawal has not yet announced his new political affiliation, there are indications that he might join the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The New Diplomat also reports that Lawal’s decision comes amid his vocal criticism of the APC’s leadership and policies, particularly under President Bola Tinubu.
In a 2023 statement, he accused the APC of prioritizing politics over governance and labeled the party’s Muslim-Muslim ticket in the 2023 elections a “disastrous error.”
Lawal’s departure also follows similar exits by prominent figures such as former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami, all of whom have recently aligned with the ADC.