By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, on Sunday criticized former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, over comments he described as divisive and ethnically charged. Atiku, through his spokesman Phrank Shaibu, accused Lawal of promoting ethnic prejudice and spreading conspiracy theories. The statement came amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election. Atiku made the remarks to defend his leadership credentials and vision for national unity. He insisted that Nigeria needs leaders who unite citizens rather than deepen divisions.
Atiku Accuses Babachir of Ethnic Profiling
Atiku said Lawal’s recent attacks lacked facts and relied on ethnic stereotypes. He argued that no Nigerian should face judgment because of the actions of criminals who share the same ethnic background.
According to him, blaming an entire ethnic group for the crimes of a few individuals threatens national unity. He warned that such rhetoric could worsen tensions in a country already facing security and economic challenges.
“Babachir may see tribe. I see Nigerians,” Atiku stated.
He added that leadership should focus on solving problems and bringing people together.
Questions Over Babachir’s Political Position
Atiku also highlighted what he described as contradictions in Lawal’s public statements.
He noted that while Lawal criticized him, he also granted interviews emphasizing his political relevance. According to Atiku, Lawal claimed that several governors wanted to bring him back to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Atiku questioned which version of Lawal Nigerians should believe.
“One moment, he presents himself as a victim. The next moment, he portrays himself as a prized political asset,” he said.
Atiku Defends Fulani Heritage Against Generalization
The former vice president rejected attempts to link the Fulani ethnic group with criminal activities.
He reminded Nigerians that Lawal served under former President Muhammadu Buhari, a Fulani man, and accepted an appointment as Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
Atiku argued that Lawal did not object to Buhari’s ethnicity when he received the position.
“It is difficult to understand why he now seeks to stigmatize an entire ethnic group,” Atiku said.
Record of Support for Victims of Violence
Atiku defended his record on national issues and humanitarian interventions.
He recalled attending a church thanksgiving service in Kagoro, Southern Kaduna, after violent attacks in the area.
According to him, he stood with victims and their families regardless of religion or ethnicity.
“Leadership is about standing with people in difficult moments,” he said.
He stressed that compassion and solidarity remain central to his approach to leadership.
Chibok Girls Scholarship Initiative Highlighted
Furthermore, Atiku pointed to his support for some of the released Chibok schoolgirls.
He said he facilitated scholarships for the girls at the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola.
Many of the beneficiaries have since graduated and rebuilt their lives.
Atiku described the initiative as evidence that nation-building requires action rather than political rhetoric.
“Compassion is more powerful than bitterness,” he added.
Atiku Defends Entrepreneurial Achievements
The ADC candidate also defended his business record.
He described attempts to question his entrepreneurial credentials as detached from reality.
Atiku cited the American University of Nigeria as an example of successful private-sector investment.
He said the institution continues to transform lives through education and human capital development.
Call for National Unity Ahead of 2027
As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 election, Atiku urged Nigerians to focus on the future.
He warned against ethnic and religious stereotyping in political discussions.
“Nigeria deserves a conversation about the future, not endless bitterness about the past,” he said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to building a country where every citizen enjoys equal opportunity, protection, and dignity under the law.
The latest exchange between Atiku and Lawal reflects the growing political tensions and shifting alliances ahead of the next electoral cycle.
