NDC gains ex-SGF Babachir, mobilises polling agents

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) welcomed former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, into its ranks on Tuesday. This move comes as the opposition party begins efforts to recruit and train polling agents across Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections. Lawal, who left the African Democratic Congress (ADC) three months ago due to alleged manipulation of its presidential primary, pledged his support for NDC presidential candidates Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Announcing his defection in Abuja, Lawal urged Nigerians concerned about insecurity, hunger, and other challenges to back the NDC, stating that it represents the future and has Obi and Kwankwaso as their candidates. NDC national leader Seriake Dickson welcomed Lawal, praising him as a skilled mobiliser and activist with extensive political experience.

He assured Lawal that he would oversee activities in the northeastern part of the country and help resolve issues, provide guidance, and direct campaigns. The NDC directed state and local government chairmen to compile and harmonise lists of party agents for the National Assembly, governorship, and state House of Assembly elections, with final lists to be submitted within two weeks. These agents would be trained and prepared for the 2027 general elections.