Ex-SGF Lawal Blasts Tinubu Over Hardship, Insecurity

ABUJA, Nigeria – Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal has slammed the federal government over the unbearable cost of living and rising insecurity ravaging the country.

NaijaChoice News reports that Lawal, who now serves as National Deputy Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, spoke during an appearance on Channels Television’s Inside Sources on Sunday. He accused President Bola Tinubu of being rattled by the growing strength of the ADC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Lawal described Nigeria as being in “dire stress,” pointing to economic hardship that makes it difficult for families to feed, pay school fees or even fuel their cars for daily commutes. He said civil servants in places like Nyanya to Abuja now resort to shifts because salaries cannot cover rent, medical bills and basic needs.

The ADC chieftain painted a grim picture of insecurity, warning that every Nigerian faces danger from bandits, kidnappers, Boko Haram insurgents and armed robbers. “We are all in danger of losing our lives or starving to death,” he stated, adding that the current administration appears careless about the crisis.

Lawal insisted the ADC coalition is committed to rescuing Nigerians from the hardship created by the All Progressives Congress-led government. He went further, claiming even President Tinubu “needs to be rescued from himself” because of his recent remarks boasting about power and the coming elections.

He accused the president of losing all sense of decorum by suggesting things would be easier for him in 2027. Lawal argued that true democracy judges leaders on performance, not intimidation of the opposition.

The former SGF claimed APC governors are not sincerely backing Tinubu and alleged the president is personally directing efforts to muzzle opposition voices. He said he once believed it was overzealous aides, but now sees Tinubu as the architect.

The ADC has gained momentum since its national convention on April 14, where former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Anambra Governor Peter Obi, former Rivers Governor Rotimi Amaechi and other heavyweights showed up. The party is positioning itself as a viable third force for 2027.

President Tinubu had earlier dismissed the ADC gathering as a “street convention” while addressing Renewed Hope Ambassadors on April 16. He said he would not be intimidated by the opposition coalition.

Political observers say Lawal’s outburst reflects deepening frustration among many Nigerians over fuel prices, inflation and persistent violence, issues that continue to dominate public debate as the country heads toward another election cycle.