Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, has delivered an explosive interview in which he launched a scathing attack on President Bola Tinubu, accused the judiciary of becoming Nigeria's biggest problem, and shared intimate personal stories about former President Muhammadu Buhari. The nearly 30-minute conversation, which aired on July 29, 2026, covered everything from Tinubu's alleged dictatorial tendencies to the president's breakfast habits.
Tinubu Accused of Abandoning Democratic Ideals
Lawal began the interview with a striking declaration: "Bola the democrat is now Bola the dictator." He claimed that the Tinubu he supported as Lagos governor no longer exists. According to Lawal, Tinubu's administration has sidelined non-Yoruba Nigerians and concentrated federal appointments and projects in Lagos. "Suddenly he comes to Abuja, and all he sees is Yoruba. Even in Yoruba, all he sees is Lagos," Lawal said, expressing deep disappointment.
Health Concerns and Personal Details
The interview took a personal turn when Lawal questioned Tinubu's capacity to govern, stating, "If I were him, I would face my problems now. He should pursue his health." Lawal also shared that Tinubu allegedly starts his day with a banana or ogi (pap) and moi-moi, and that the only luxury he knew the president enjoyed was Silk cigarettes, though he added that he does not know if Tinubu still smokes.
Judiciary and Governance Under Fire
Lawal described the judiciary as "the major problem of the country," arguing that many Nigerians have lost faith in politically sensitive rulings. "When the judiciary fails, where do you go?" he asked. He linked the decline to corruption and greed, saying the pursuit of wealth has replaced integrity and public service.
He also accused the government of trying to silence the opposition, warning of a drift toward one-party dominance. "It's part of him now," Lawal said, referring to the alleged weaponization of state institutions.
Fake Agency Controversy and Gbajabiamila
Lawal waded into the controversy surrounding a purported fake government agency that secured a ₦1.3 billion budget allocation. He suggested that President Tinubu may have been aware of the scheme, noting that Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila's press conference disowning the agency raised suspicion. "I smelt a rat," Lawal said. He argued that Gbajabiamila could still manipulate any investigation even if he stepped aside, because "I step aside with my iPhone still in my hand."
Contrast with Buhari's Leadership
Lawal contrasted Tinubu's handling of the Gbajabiamila controversy with former President Buhari's treatment of his own suspension in 2017. Lawal claimed Buhari was not involved in his removal and was furious when he found out. In contrast, Lawal said Tinubu has stood by his chief of staff publicly.
On budgeting, Lawal alleged that Tinubu does not believe in the appropriation process. "The whole money is his own. He can deploy it anywhere he likes," Lawal claimed. He recalled that under Buhari, spending approvals required strict scrutiny, and he once warned Buhari not to approve an unauthorised memo. Buhari reportedly responded, "Ah, kill the memo."
A Personal Bond with Buhari
Lawal ended the interview with a touching story: he first met Buhari as a hungry military school student seeking food. Buhari later paid his seminary school fees and gave him pocket money. Lawal portrayed Buhari as a leader who listened to criticism, recalling how he once told Buhari not to personally interview drivers. Instead of taking offence, Buhari said, "You're the only person that can tell me this."
While many of Lawal's comments are personal opinions and allegations, the interview offers a revealing glimpse into the fractured relationship between two key political figures. With the next election cycle approaching, the fallout from these remarks is likely to persist.
