Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has expressed doubts about the presidential prospects of Peter Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 election, while suggesting that President Bola Tinubu may remain the more viable option despite growing criticism of his administration.
In an interview published by The Sun Nigeria on Sunday, June 21, 2026, Lawal compared the strengths and weaknesses of the three politicians, expressing particular doubts about the opposition’s ability to unseat the ruling party.
He suggested that while many Nigerians have reservations about the current administration led by Tinubu, the available alternatives also face significant challenges.
The former SGF indicated that he considers the political climate too fragile for an Atiku presidency, arguing that the country requires stability and careful leadership at a time of mounting economic and social pressures.
Although critical of the present government, Lawal maintained that the administration remains a more predictable option under current circumstances.
Lawal also questioned Obi’s chances of emerging victorious in the next presidential election.
He attributed his concerns to what he described as the structural disadvantages facing the Nigeria Democratic Congress, the platform Obi adopted after leaving the African Democratic Congress earlier this year.
According to him, winning a nationwide election requires a well established political organisation, extensive grassroots networks and substantial financial backing.
He suggested that Obi’s current political platform still lacks some of the key elements traditionally associated with successful presidential campaigns in Nigeria.
Lawal said, “My hope in Peter Obi winning is not very high because of the structural challenges he has chosen to saddle himself with by moving to a party without resources or structure. I pray that we find a way out. How God is going to do it, I do not know.”
The remarks come as political parties and alliances intensify preparations for the 2027 polls.
Obi recently secured the presidential ticket of the Nigeria Democratic Congress and subsequently teamed up with former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, who emerged as his running mate.
