…Says SDP Candidate ‘Will Make an Excellent President’
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, has endorsed the presidential ambition of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, describing him as the best among those seeking Nigeria’s highest office ahead of the 2027 general election.
Lawal, a former top official in the administration of late President Muhammadu Buhari, made the declaration during a recent interview, where he praised Adebayo’s leadership qualities, grasp of economic issues, and understanding of the country’s social challenges.
“If I had my way, that boy, Adewole Adebayo of the SDP — he is the only number one. I would give him 100 per cent,” Lawal said.
“Have you listened to him on television? Based on his speech, the way he talks? He will make an excellent president.”
The former SGF said Adebayo possesses the qualities needed to lead Nigeria at a time of economic hardship and growing public dissatisfaction with governance.
According to him, the SDP presidential hopeful combines youthfulness with a sound understanding of the nation’s economy and the realities facing ordinary Nigerians.
“He’s youthful, he understands the economy, he understands what the society is going through,” Lawal stated.
While expressing confidence in Adebayo’s capabilities, Lawal also said he hoped the SDP candidate would remain humble if elected president.
“I hope he’s humbled. I wouldn’t know that, but I hope he’s not just a typical Yoruba man like my friend,” he said without identifying the person he referred to, before reiterating, “But Adebayo will make a good president.”
Lawal’s endorsement is considered significant given his political standing in the North and his evolving political journey in recent years.
A founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Lawal served as Secretary to the Government of the Federation between 2015 and 2017 before leaving office. He later joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) alongside former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other coalition figures seeking to challenge the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Following disagreements with the ADC leadership, Lawal currently does not belong to any political party, making his endorsement of Adebayo appear independent of partisan interests.
Political observers believe his support could strengthen Adebayo’s growing profile, particularly in Northern Nigeria, where Lawal remains an influential political figure, especially in Adamawa State.
Adebayo, a lawyer and the SDP’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has continued to campaign on issues of economic reforms, governance, and institutional accountability while positioning himself as an alternative to the country’s dominant political parties.
Analysts say Lawal’s endorsement may reinforce the perception of Adebayo as a candidate attracting support beyond his traditional South-West base, although its impact on voter mobilisation ahead of the 2027 presidential election remains to be seen.
