Babachir Lawal: Political Defections to APC Driven by Hunger, Not Ideology

Meta Title: Babachir Lawal Slams Political Defections to APC as Hunger-Driven
Meta Description: Former SGF Babachir Lawal criticizes defections to the APC, saying most are driven by hunger and self-preservation, not ideology or public service.
Keywords: Babachir Lawal, APC, political defections, 2027 elections, hunger politics, Nigerian politics

Abuja | May 20, 2025 — Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has taken a swipe at the growing wave of political defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), dismissing the trend as a scramble for personal survival rather than a demonstration of loyalty or ideological alignment.

In an interview with ARISE News on Wednesday, Lawal criticized what he described as a “defection culture” in Nigerian politics, linking it to the inability of some politicians to endure hardship outside government.

“It’s not every Nigerian that can withstand hunger, and not every Nigerian can survive poverty,” Lawal said. “Most of these politicians that are defecting to APC are probably driven by the desire to safeguard their stomachs and the luxurious lifestyles they’ve acquired while in government using the people’s money.”

“Defection Reflects Character, Not Conviction”

Lawal drew a sharp contrast between politicians who enter public service for altruistic reasons and those he described as career opportunists.

“Defection is just a function of character. Somebody without character will easily abandon you when his interest is threatened—not when the interests of the masses are.”

He argued that many of the defectors lack the courage to remain in opposition, where resources are scarcer and public scrutiny is tougher. For them, aligning with the ruling party is a means of self-preservation rather than national development.

Doubting Political Clout of Defectors

The former SGF also questioned the real electoral influence of many high-profile politicians, including governors and party stalwarts who have switched allegiance. He cited examples of Delta and Borno States, where despite the incumbency advantage, key figures failed to sway the electorate in their favor.

“Even serving governors and vice-presidential candidates could not deliver their home states. That tells you something—that real political power lies with the people, not necessarily with the defectors.”

Unconcerned About 2027

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Lawal said those opposed to the APC are not worried by defections, stating that the true test of popularity and relevance lies at the ballot box.

“We are not bothered about defections. It will continue to happen. But in 2027, we’ll go to the ballot boxes and we’ll see the results. We are confident that it’s immaterial.”

Lawal’s remarks come at a time when several opposition figures have recently joined the APC, fueling speculations about realignments ahead of the next electoral cycle. Critics have long accused Nigerian politicians of lacking ideological conviction, often switching parties in search of political patronage or legal protection.

Babachir Lawal, once a staunch ally of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has remained a vocal critic of the APC’s current direction, especially under the Tinubu administration, which he has frequently challenged both on ideological and performance grounds.