Lawal: Buhari complained about Tinubu’s past, still backed him
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal said in a Symfoni TV interview released Saturday that former President Muhammadu Buhari privately complained about President Bola Tinubu’s upbringing, unclear genealogy and education, yet still gave his political support during the formation of the All Progressives Congress. Lawal said he reminded Buhari that those issues were known before they sought Tinubu’s backing, and that Buhari, being a man of conscience, would agree.
The revelation highlights lingering tensions within the APC’s founding leadership and raises questions about the consistency of political alliances. It suggests that despite private reservations, leaders may still forge partnerships for expediency, which could affect public trust in current governance and party cohesion, especially as Nigeria faces ongoing debates over governance and accountability.
Lawal argued that it was morally wrong to turn against someone whose support had been accepted despite known concerns, likening it to biting the hand that fed you. He urged Buhari to acknowledge the inconsistency. Readers might reflect on how past political deals shape present decisions and what standards of integrity they expect from leaders. If alliances were formed despite known flaws, what does that say about political integrity today, and how should voters assess consistency in leadership?