Former Kaduna senator, Shehu Sani, has criticised recent remarks made by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, against the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar.
The disagreement followed comments by Babachir Lawal, who questioned the credibility of the ADC presidential primary and alleged that the process was manipulated in favour of Atiku.
While expressing his dissatisfaction with the outcome of the primary election, Lawal reportedly compared the former vice president to a notorious bandit leader, a remark that quickly sparked reactions within political circles.
However, Atiku’s supporters rejected the allegations, insisting that the party’s nomination process was conducted fairly and that claims of manipulation were baseless.
Reacting to the controversy, Shehu Sani described the comparison as inappropriate and disrespectful, arguing that political disagreements should not be reduced to personal attacks or associations with criminal activities.
In a statement shared on his X account, the former lawmaker acknowledged the growing divisions within opposition ranks but maintained that linking Atiku to banditry crossed the line.
According to him, the public fallout between Atiku and some of his political allies in Adamawa State reflects the internal challenges currently facing opposition parties.
Despite the differences, Sani insisted that political criticism should remain civil and respectful.
He stated that while disagreements and rivalries are common in politics, associating a former vice president with criminal elements is unacceptable and does not contribute to healthy democratic discourse.
The latest exchange highlights ongoing tensions within opposition politics as parties continue to reposition ahead of future electoral contests.