Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the leadership crisis rocking the ranks of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has deepened in the North-East, with governorship candidates in the region rejecting former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, as the party’s zonal leader.
The Adamawa State governorship candidates said they do not recognise Lawal in the position and have dissociated themselves from any statements, directives or meetings he may undertake in that capacity.
The candidates said the role of a zonal leader requires broad consultation and recognition by party stakeholders across the region.
They maintained that Lawal was not mandated to speak for them, issue directives, convene meetings or represent their collective interests.
The latest position comes days after six NDC governorship candidates from Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe rejected Lawal’s appointment, alleging that they were not consulted before the decision was taken.
The candidates are now calling on the national leadership of the party to engage relevant stakeholders in the North-East and resolve the leadership question ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Lawal, however, has defended his emergence, saying his appointment was made by the national leadership of the NDC.
