BREAKING: Atiku Challenges Lawal To Present Evidence Of ADC Primary Rigging

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According to report by The Nation News on Monday, June 1, 2026, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly rejected allegations by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary election was manipulated in his favour.

Responding through a statement issued by his media team, Atiku described the accusations as unfounded and challenged Lawal to provide concrete evidence to support his claims.

The statement, signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, maintained that the primary election was conducted across the country in a transparent manner and produced a clear outcome.

According to Atiku, Lawal has failed to present any documents, witnesses, or verifiable facts that could substantiate allegations of electoral manipulation.

He argued that the claims were based on speculation rather than proof and suggested that Lawal’s criticism may be linked to dissatisfaction with the results of the contest.

The former vice president also accused Lawal of adopting contradictory positions regarding the primary process.

He noted that while Lawal questioned the credibility of the exercise, he appeared less critical of outcomes that allegedly benefited individuals associated with him.

Atiku further dismissed suggestions that he lacks national political influence or a distinguished record of public service.

He stated that Nigerians are familiar with his contributions to governance, business, economic reforms, and national development over the years.

The ADC presidential candidate emphasized that political actors should focus their attention on addressing pressing national challenges, including economic hardship and insecurity, rather than prolonging disputes arising from internal party contests.

He stressed that democracy guarantees every aspirant the opportunity to participate in an election but does not guarantee victory.

As such, disagreements following political primaries should be handled within the framework of democratic principles and party mechanisms.

Atiku concluded by expressing confidence that the ultimate decision in the 2027 presidential election would rest with Nigerian voters, not with controversies surrounding party primary elections or post-primary disagreements.