Phrank Shaibu, the Special Assistant on Public Communication to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, has firmly rejected allegations that the party’s primary election was fraudulent. Shaibu declared the process credible and challenged those who claim otherwise to provide evidence.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today program on Wednesday, Shaibu dismissed the accusations made by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal. He stated that Lawal’s claims of rigging are baseless and that the burden of proof lies with the accuser.
Shaibu argued that Atiku’s victory was expected because he was the most popular contender among the candidates, which included former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen. He questioned the integrity of the allegations by pointing out that Lawal’s preferred candidate, Hayatu-Deen, did not win in any state outside his strongholds.
“Anyone alleging fraud in the election should look at the results and see where each candidate won,” Shaibu said. “If you examine the margins and locations, you will realize it was a transparent process.”
In a striking analogy, Shaibu compared Lawal’s reaction to that of a baby throwing a tantrum after being taken off its mother’s breast. He said, “Babachir reminds me of a child deprived of suckling; naturally, the baby will fuss. He admitted on your show that his preferred candidate was Hayatu-Deen, and he worked for him. His frustration is understandable but not justified.”
Shaibu maintained that the ADC primary election was conducted fairly and that Atiku’s nomination reflects the will of party members.