In an interview published by The Sun Nigeria on Sunday, June 21, 2026, Lawal weighed the prospects of President Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Nigeria Democratic Congress candidate Peter Obi.
He suggested that while the current administration has attracted criticism from many quarters, he remains unconvinced that an alternative led by Atiku would provide the stability the country requires at this stage.
Lawal argued that the nation is facing a difficult political period and indicated that Nigerians may ultimately have to endure the present circumstances while awaiting another opportunity for leadership change.
He said, “Between Atiku and President Tinubu, Tinubu is at least wary of us. All we may need to do is tolerate the arrogance of this government for another four years and then move on.”
He maintained that the challenges confronting the country demand careful consideration of who is best positioned to govern effectively.
The former SGF also questioned Obi’s electoral prospects, citing what he described as organisational limitations within the political platform the former Anambra State governor now represents.
According to him, successful presidential campaigns in Nigeria depend heavily on extensive grassroots networks, funding capacity and established party machinery, areas where he believes Obi’s current platform remains disadvantaged.
Obi emerged as the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress after leaving the African Democratic Congress earlier in 2026.
His move was followed by the defection of former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, who later became his running mate as the party sought to build a broad-based opposition coalition ahead of the next general election.
