Abuja, Nigeria – Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revealed the reason behind the ongoing political tension between former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to Wike, Babachir Lawal has remained upset since Tinubu declined to choose him as his running mate for the 2023 presidential election, opting instead for Senator Kashim Shettima, who now serves as Vice President.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Channels Television on Tuesday, Wike said Lawal’s anger stems from unmet expectations and unresolved grievances dating back to the pre-election period.
“Babachir had hoped to be named the Vice Presidential candidate. When that didn’t happen, he became visibly upset,” Wike stated.
He revealed that Lawal even paid him a visit in Port Harcourt at the time, expressing his disappointment and frustration over being “snubbed” by the then-presidential candidate.
“He came to my house in Port Harcourt with one of the former Speakers of the House of Representatives,” Wike disclosed.
“His grievance was clear — he believed Mr. President should have picked him instead of Shettima. After that, everything seemed to spiral.”
Wike added that despite the passage of time and Tinubu’s subsequent election as President, Babachir Lawal has refused to reconcile or move past the issue, continuing to harbor resentment.
“If you had issues with the President before he assumed office, there’s nothing wrong with seeking a resolution. But that has not happened,” Wike remarked.
Political Fallout Within APC
Babachir Lawal, a former ally of President Tinubu, has been openly critical of several decisions made by the Tinubu administration, particularly in relation to the Muslim-Muslim ticket — a major point of contention within the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 election campaign.
Wike’s comments shed light on the behind-the-scenes political dynamics that continue to influence relationships within the ruling party and among high-profile figures in Nigerian politics.
