You are Flat Spare Tyre, Babachir Lawal Fires Shettima

In a blistering interview, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Babachir David Lawal launched a withering attack on Nigeria’s political establishment, describing Vice President Kashim Shettima as a “flat spare tyre” who is ineffective and should consider resigning.

Lawal’s remarks reflect his deep-seated dissatisfaction with the current administration and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Lawal, a prominent figure in the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), expressed frustration with the APC’s governance, accusing it of neglecting the poor, exacerbating hunger, and perpetuating injustice. He criticized Vice President Shettima’s role as largely ceremonial, limited to attending social events, and lacking significant influence or representation of the President at major events. Lawal suggested that Shettima’s perceived irrelevance warrants his resignation, stating, “If I were him, I would have graciously, honorably left this job.”

The former SGF also revealed ongoing efforts to form a new political coalition aimed at challenging the APC in the 2027 elections. The coalition, which includes former CPC members and other political groups, is exploring the creation of a new party or joining an existing one, with the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Labour Party (LP) as potential options. However, Lawal categorically ruled out any alliance with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), describing it as having an “incurable virus.”

Lawal highlighted the active involvement of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the coalition, praising his commitment but clarifying that no candidate has been selected. He emphasized that the coalition will adopt a convention-based selection process to choose its flagbearer, prioritizing competence and fairness over regional considerations.

The former SGF 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. Lawal accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu 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 insecurity, Lawal proposed arming local communities as a solution, citing the failure of the military 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, citing the coalition’s strategic planning and widespread support among disillusioned Nigerians. Lawal urged citizens to remain hopeful, promising that the coalition would deliver a viable alternative by 2027.

The remarks have sparked reactions across political circles, with some viewing Lawal’s 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.