PDP Has Incurable Virus, Not Fit For Coalition, Says Ex-SGF Babachir Lawal

Wednesday May 21, 2025|

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has dismissed the chances of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of being adopted as the platform for the much-anticipated opposition coalition, describing the party as having an “incurable virus.”

Lawal made the statement during an interview on Arise News TV’s ‘The Morning Show’ on Wednesday, May 21, where he addressed the ongoing discussions surrounding the formation of a united front by opposition parties against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“We are getting to the end of the process and we will soon announce the party that will lead, or register a new party,” Lawal revealed. “Nigerians are anxious, and since we are here to serve the people, we are speeding up the process to reduce the tension among ourselves.”

When asked about the possibility of PDP being used as the coalition’s platform, Lawal was unequivocal in his response.

“I can tell you in all the analysis so far, nobody has said anything about adopting PDP as the platform,” he said. “We have all agreed that PDP has an incurable virus, no antibiotics can cure what is ailing PDP. We don’t want to go into a house that cannot be modified, so PDP is not in that list.”

Lawal’s comments came amidst a series of high-profile meetings among political stakeholders aimed at forming a credible alternative to the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Addressing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s involvement in the coalition talks, Lawal acknowledged his political stature and role in the ongoing process.

“First of all, we are from the same state. He is also an elder statesman and an eminent politician. To that extent, I have great respect for him,” Lawal stated.

Addressing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s involvement in the coalition talks, Lawal acknowledged his political stature and role in the ongoing process.

“First of all, we are from the same state. He is also an elder statesman and an eminent politician. To that extent, I have great respect for him,” Lawal stated.

“Atiku has presented himself at every such meeting, and what I can say is that he is committed to the cause,” Lawal said.