By Emmanuella Oghenetega
A former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Babachir Lawal, has declared that the party will participate in the 2027 general elections irrespective of the position of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television on Wednesday, Lawal insisted that the ADC’s recently concluded convention remains valid, despite the absence of INEC officials at the event.
He explained that the party proceeded with the exercise based on legal advice, describing the convention as successful in spite of what he alleged were attempts by the government to undermine the process.
Lawal dismissed INEC’s authority to determine the legality of the convention, stressing that the commission is not a judicial body.
“We do not take directives from INEC. They are neither the Appeal Court nor the Supreme Court, not even a High Court. INEC can make its pronouncements, but regardless of that, we will be on the ballot and participate in the election,” he said.
The ADC chieftain further expressed confidence in the party’s capacity to address Nigeria’s challenges, citing the calibre of its members and its internal democratic structure.
However, he noted that the party’s immediate focus is to prevent the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) from retaining power.
“We are confident we have the solutions and the right people to move this country forward. But first, the priority is to stop the current administration from continuing on its present course,” Lawal added.
