Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has sparked controversy after claiming that Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election could be decided by electoral manipulation rather than voters’ choice.
Speaking during a television interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Lawal said President Bola Tinubu would be “difficult to defeat” if election outcomes were determined by rigging.
“Landslide. He will out-rig everybody,” Lawal said.
He added that, if “the parameter for winning an election in Nigeria is rigging,” then no candidate would be able to compete effectively against Tinubu.
Lawal also criticised former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, suggesting that any perceived political strength based on electoral manipulation would be challenged in the next election cycle.
“If Atiku’s strength is in manipulating results, I wish him luck. He will meet the master rigger in the front,” he said.
The former SGF also used the interview to question Atiku’s popularity within sections of the northern region, while referring to him with a local title he said is used in some communities.
His comments have drawn attention amid early political positioning ahead of the 2027 general elections, where rival parties are already building coalitions and testing public sentiment.
Lawal further stated that he was not comfortable with what he described as a political environment shaped by electoral malpractice, adding that he would not support any process he considers unfair.
“So that’s our choice. Maybe that’s how Nigerians want their things. I don’t want to be part of anything,” he said.
Neither the Presidency nor Atiku’s camp has issued an official response to the remarks at the time of filing this report.
The comments add to growing political tension as parties prepare for what is expected to be a highly competitive 2027 election season.
