2023 Presidency: Ex-SGF, Babachir Lawal Backs Peter Obi, Says Labour Party Has Potential To Win

By Damilare Adeleye

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has described the Labour Party has the only political party which has “big’’ chances of winning the 2023 presidential election.

The ruling All Progressive Congress Chieftain, who has thrown his weight behind the LP presidential candidate, Peter Obi, said his decision was influenced by general public opinion about Obi.

Speaking during an interview on Channels TV, Lawal stated that Labour Party government will address the dynamics of marginalisation, Insecurity, inclusiveness among others in the country.

In his words, “I told you that we want to support political party that has the potential to win and the potential to rule. And to address all the other dynamics of the society. What are these dynamics I have narrated before? Marginalisation, insecurity, inclusiveness. So, (if) you look at it, there are four political parties that worth our discussion and we've discussed with them except as I said earlier, your big friend, APC, the big party. And they have showed a good interest. Kwankwaso is a material for presidency, for example. We discussed with him. But, we looked at his system and tendency. Their chances of winning election based on our parameters is very small. We looked at Labour Party, we think the chances are very very big. And we think that a government run by Peter Obi and Datti will give Nigeria the desired peace. In fact, it will win us from this oligarchy.’’

Asked if he has any commitment from Peter Obi before his decision, the former SGF stated: “No! We don't need a commitment. This issue is very simple. If you go to every Christian village in Nigeria, they will tell you. They know candidates for the other political posts. But they will tell you we are doing Peter Obi. ’’

He also noted Obi's support is based on shared popular opinion among the Northern Christians.

Speaking on why APC and PDP may not see Peter Obi becoming Nigeria's next president, Babachir Lawal said, “Every politician thinks he is going to win an election. That is why he's there. And for some reasons, the mindset will be people telling you that you're the only person that can win.’’