Babachir Lawal Dumps APC, Set to Join ADC After Grass-Cutting Scandal Fallout

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, who was sacked over a widely criticized contract scandal involving the clearing of grasses in the North-East, has officially resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and is reportedly set to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Lawal, who served under President Muhammadu Buhari, was dismissed in 2017 after being indicted in a multi-billion-naira contract fraud scandal linked to humanitarian relief efforts in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.

The controversy, often dubbed the “grass-cutting scandal,” became a national symbol of hypocrisy and corruption under an administration that came to power on an anti-corruption mantra.

In a political twist that underscores the realignment of interests ahead of the 2027 general elections, Lawal’s move to the ADC is seen by analysts as part of a broader effort to revive the party as a coalition platform for disenchanted political elites. Sources within the ADC have confirmed ongoing consultations with the former SGF, who remains an influential voice in Northern politics despite his checkered past.

Babachir’s resignation from the APC follows months of internal criticism of the party’s direction and his vocal opposition to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, despite previously being seen as a close ally of the ruling bloc during the Buhari years.

His anticipated defection to the ADC is likely to stir debate, given the party’s recent positioning as an alternative political vehicle for figures who have fallen out with both the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Critics argue that the ADC is fast becoming a sanctuary for politicians seeking political rehabilitation without accountability.

While Lawal has yet to make a formal declaration of his membership in the ADC, insiders say the move is imminent and may be followed by a major public address in the coming days.