Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has revealed that former Kano State governor and presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is currently in discussions with members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking in an interview, Lawal disclosed that several high-ranking political figures from both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the ADC have been engaging Kwankwaso with the aim of drawing him into the coalition.
He described Kwankwaso as a highly influential and respected political figure whose presence would be a major asset to any political movement.
“I am aware that people have been holding meetings with Kwankwaso,” Lawal said.
“And clearly, Kwankwaso is welcome in the ADC coalition because he belongs to the group of influential figures who can bring a large following.”
He emphasized that members of the ADC coalition are not preoccupied with party identities but are more focused on attracting influential individuals with grassroots support.
“The coalition is not about political parties, but about individuals moving into it. It is not the logo or letterhead paper that we’re after. It’s the people who make up those parties. They can come in individually or in groups. They are welcome,” he explained.
Lawal also commented on the possibility of Kwankwaso joining either as an individual or alongside his supporters, noting that the coalition is open to both scenarios.
“Whether Kwankwaso joins with just his supporters or along with the NNPP, they would be welcomed either way,” he said.
Asked whether the ADC coalition is targeting the structure of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Lawal clarified that the focus is not on entire party platforms but on people.
“It is not the logo or letterhead paper that we’re after. It’s the people who make up those parties.”
He further explained that even if Kwankwaso ultimately decides not to formally join the ADC, many of his followers may still choose to do so independently.
“Even if Kwankwaso himself doesn’t join the ADC, many of his supporters are likely to join on their own.”
In addition, Lawal noted that some local government branches of the NNPP could eventually align with the ADC, regardless of the national leadership’s stance.
He disclosed that influential politicians from across the country are already aligning with the ADC, but often doing so discreetly.
“Big individuals in the states are joining the ADC, but they are not saying they are joining us from the NNPP or the PDP. Atiku joined the ADC and he didn’t say the PDP is joining the ADC.”
Lawal reaffirmed that the coalition’s focus remains on the grassroots, where political strength is built and sustained.
“The coalition is focused on the grassroots level, where politics truly matters.”
