Babachir Lawal Urges Nigerians to Reject Identity Politics Ahead of 2027 Elections

Former SGF Babachir Lawal has called on Nigerians to choose leaders based on competence and proven ability rather than ethnicity, political loyalty or regional considerations in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.

During an interview on Eagle 102.5 FM, Lawal said the country’s current economic and security challenges require a new approach to leadership selection, one focused on performance and accountability.

According to him, Nigerians across all regions are facing hardship and deserve better governance.

“Bola has not been able to give us good governance. I judge governance by results, not by tribe or sentiment. Nigerians are suffering everywhere, whether in the North, South, East or West.”

The former SGF criticised the government’s handling of insecurity, arguing that repeated acknowledgements of the problem are no substitute for concrete action.

“People are tired of hearing that government is aware of insecurity or economic hardship. Awareness is not the issue. Action is what matters. Nigerians want to see results, not statements.”

He said rural communities continue to bear the brunt of insecurity, with many residents facing attacks, displacement and economic difficulties.

Lawal maintained that any government that fails to guarantee security cannot effectively deliver development.

“If you cannot protect lives, then nothing else matters. Security is the foundation of everything.”

Turning to the 2027 race, he warned voters against making electoral choices solely to unseat the current administration.

“The issue is not just about removing anybody. It is about making sure that whoever comes in is better, more competent, and capable of delivering results that Nigerians can feel.”

He stressed that leadership decisions should be guided by merit rather than ethnic identity.

“We must move away from identity politics. What matters is who can fix the country, not where they come from.”

Lawal also questioned the commitment of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to issues affecting ordinary Nigerians, arguing that national leaders should demonstrate empathy and direct engagement with affected communities.

In addition, he expressed scepticism about opposition coalitions, claiming that many are built around personal ambitions instead of a genuine desire for national transformation.

The former SGF, who recently resigned from the African Democratic Congress, said he joined the party because he believed a coalition was necessary to offer Nigerians a credible alternative.

He praised economist Mohammad Hayatu-Deen, describing him as one of the most competent figures currently associated with the opposition.

“On the basis of merit, competence and capability, Hayatu-Deen tops them all because he is a very well-rounded corporate guru.”

Lawal concluded by reminding Nigerians that democracy requires continuous scrutiny of elected officials.

“My criticism has nothing to do with political alignment. Nigerians must be free to assess leadership based on performance. That is how democracy should work.”

He urged citizens to carefully evaluate future candidates based on competence, integrity and national interest as political alignments begin to take shape ahead of the next general election.

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