Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has defended his recent criticism of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, arguing that no political leader should be shielded from public scrutiny or legitimate criticism.
Lawal made the clarification following reactions to comments he previously made about Atiku in the aftermath of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary election.
According to him, some individuals have deliberately misrepresented his remarks as an attack on a particular ethnic group rather than a critique of a political figure and presidential aspirant.
The former SGF maintained that political discussions should focus on leadership qualities, competence, integrity, and public records rather than ethnic or regional sentiments.
He argued that democratic accountability requires citizens to critically evaluate those seeking public office.
Lawal recently resigned from the ADC after alleging that the party's presidential primary election was manipulated in favour of Atiku.
He claimed that the process was unfair and that results were altered to produce a predetermined outcome, allegations that the party and Atiku's camp have strongly denied.
Responding to criticism over his statements, Lawal insisted that questioning political leaders should not be interpreted through ethnic or religious lenses.
He said political figures, regardless of their influence or popularity, must remain subject to public examination and criticism.
The former SGF also revisited circumstances surrounding his exit from the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, alleging that the controversy leading to his removal from office was politically motivated.
His comments come amid an escalating political dispute between him and Atiku's supporters following the ADC primary.
Atiku's camp has dismissed Lawal's allegations of manipulation, describing them as unsubstantiated and driven by personal grievances after his preferred candidates failed to emerge victorious.
Political observers say the exchange highlights growing tensions within opposition circles ahead of the 2027 general election.
The disagreement has also reignited debates over internal party democracy, candidate selection processes, and the future of opposition coalitions.
Despite the controversy, Lawal has maintained that his intervention is aimed at encouraging accountability and ensuring that political leaders are assessed based on their records and suitability for office rather than personal loyalties or identity politics.