- Shehu Sani criticised remarks made by Babachir David Lawal against Atiku Abubakar
- He described the “Kachalla” comparison as inappropriate and warned against inflammatory political language
- The exchange reflected rising tensions within opposition ranks ahead of the 2027 general elections
Former federal lawmaker, Shehu Sani, has criticised comments made by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, over his recent remarks directed at the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Atiku Abubakar.
Babachir Lawal had reportedly accused Atiku of manipulating the party’s presidential primary and controversially likened him to a bandit leader, describing him as “Kachalla,” a term commonly associated with armed criminal groups in parts of northern Nigeria.
The remark has since generated widespread reactions across the political space, with Atiku’s camp strongly rejecting the allegations and dismissing claims of electoral manipulation during the party’s primary process.
Reacting via his official X handle on Tuesday, Shehu Sani described the statement as inappropriate and disrespectful, warning against the use of inflammatory language in political discourse.
He noted that while disagreements and political tensions within the opposition were becoming increasingly visible, such rhetoric only deepens divisions and undermines democratic engagement.
“The parting of ways between HE the Waziri and his Adamawa political associate is an indication of the rickety condition of the opposition,” Sani wrote.
However, he strongly condemned the comparison, insisting that associating a former Vice President with banditry was unacceptable.
“But calling the Waziri ‘Kachalla’ and associating him with banditry is utterly disrespectful and unacceptable,” he added.
The comment adds to growing political tension within opposition ranks, particularly within the ADC, where internal disputes over the outcome of its presidential primary election have continued to generate controversy and public disagreement among key stakeholders.
Political observers say the exchange highlights widening cracks within opposition alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections, as prominent figures trade accusations and counter-accusations over party leadership, legitimacy, and internal democracy.
Neither Atiku Abubakar nor Babachir Lawal has issued a further response to Sani’s latest comments as of the time of filing this report.