Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, has sharply criticized Vice President Kashim Shettima, labeling him a “flat spare tyre” and suggesting that he should consider resigning due to perceived ineffectiveness.
In a recent interview, Lawal expressed his broader dissatisfaction with the current administration and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The prominent figure from the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) voiced frustration over the APC’s governance, accusing it of neglecting the poor and worsening issues of hunger and injustice.
“If I were him, I would have graciously, honorably left this job,” Lawal stated, emphasizing Shettima’s ceremonial role, which he described as limited to attending weddings and condolence visits, lacking significant influence or representation at major events.
Lawal also revealed ongoing efforts to establish a new political coalition aimed at challenging the APC in the 2027 elections. This coalition, comprising former CPC members and other political groups, is exploring the possibility of creating a new party or joining an existing one, with the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Labour Party (LP) as potential candidates. However, he ruled out any alliance with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), characterizing it as having an “incurable virus” and noting its absence from coalition discussions.
Highlighting the active involvement of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the coalition, Lawal praised his commitment but clarified that no candidate has been selected yet. “The democratic process will sort out who becomes what,” he said, emphasizing a convention-based selection for the coalition’s flagbearer. He dismissed speculations about regional preferences, asserting that the coalition prioritizes competence and fairness over zoning.
Addressing the internal dynamics of the PDP, Lawal noted that the recent meeting of its governors, who rejected mergers, raises doubts about Atiku’s prospects for 2027 within the party. He suggested that Atiku’s focus on the coalition could indicate a potential shift away from the PDP, as joining the new party would preclude dual party membership.
Lawal also criticized the APC’s leadership, particularly National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, whom he described as ineffective and more suited to religious missionary work than political leadership. He accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of tribal bias, claiming key appointments favor Yoruba individuals, and warned of growing discontent among Nigerians, particularly in the North, which he described as a “massive refugee camp” due to economic hardship and insecurity.
On the issue of insecurity, Lawal proposed arming local communities as a solution, citing the military’s failure to adequately protect citizens due to outdated equipment and lack of motivation. He lamented the treatment of soldiers, noting that insufficient support and poor welfare undermine their effectiveness against insurgents.
As the coalition gains momentum, Lawal expressed confidence in its ability to unseat the APC, dismissing claims of Tinubu’s invincibility. “He knows we can defeat him,” Lawal asserted, pointing to the coalition’s strategic planning and widespread support among disillusioned Nigerians.
He urged citizens to remain hopeful, promising that the coalition would deliver a viable alternative by 2027. Lawal’s remarks have sparked reactions across political circles, with some viewing his coalition as a potential game-changer, while others question its ability to unify disparate groups. As Nigeria grapples with economic challenges and political uncertainty, Lawal’s bold statements signal a turbulent road to the next elections.
