Former SGF Babachir Lawal Resigns from APC, Teases New Political Alliance

 Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Babachir Lawal formally resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) on July 7, 2025, hinting at a potential new political alliance that could reshape Nigeria’s opposition landscape. 

In a five-page letter addressed to APC Acting National Chairman Ali Dalori, Lawal cited irreconcilable differences, including the party’s handling of 10,217 insecurity deaths since 2023, a 97% debt-service-to-revenue ratio, and perceived marginalization of northern interests. “I can no longer support this trajectory,” he wrote, suggesting alignment with Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi’s coalition.

Lawal, a pivotal figure in Muhammadu Buhari’s 2015 campaign, retains 45% support among northern APC members, with 2,500 supporters rallying in Yola on July 6. The APC, which controls 20 states, downplayed his exit, but political analysts estimate a 6% vote shift in the 2027 elections. 

Lawal’s next move, possibly a new party by October, involves raising a N1.2 billion war chest, with 65% of opposition leaders welcoming his potential role. His 2017 N500 million grass-cutting scandal lingers, but he vows transparency, amid 33% inflation.