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VICE PRESIDENT SHETTIMA, A FLAT SPARE TYRE – EX-SGF LAWAL
In a scathing critique of Nigeria’s political landscape, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, has described Vice President Kashim Shettima as a “flat spare tyre,” suggesting he is ineffective and should consider resigning.
Vice President Kashim Shettima
The remarks, made during an interview, underscore Lawal’s broader 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 marginalizing the poor and exacerbating hunger and injustice.
If I were him, I would have graciously, honorably left this job
He criticized the Vice President’s role as largely ceremonial, limited to attending weddings and condolence visits, and lacking significant influence or representation of the President at major events. “If I were him, I would have graciously, honorably left this job,” Lawal stated, emphasizing Shettima’s perceived irrelevance.
The former SGF also discussed ongoing efforts to form a new political coalition aimed at challenging the APC in the 2027 elections. He revealed that 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.
Babachir Lawal
However, he categorically ruled out any alliance with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), describing it as having an “incurable virus” and noting its absence from coalition talks.
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. “The democratic process will sort out who becomes what,” he said, emphasizing a convention-based selection for the coalition’s flagbearer.
The democratic process will sort out who becomes what
He dismissed speculations about regional preferences, stating that the coalition prioritizes competence and fairness over zoning.
Addressing the PDP’s internal dynamics, Lawal noted that its governors’ recent meeting, where they rejected mergers, has cast doubts on Atiku’s 2027 prospects within the party. He suggested that Atiku’s focus on the coalition indicates a potential shift away from the PDP, as joining the new party would preclude dual party membership.
HE Atiku Abubakar
Lawal 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.
He 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.
He knows we can defeat him
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.
He 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.
