By Adeyinka Adeniran
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Amb. Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, on Friday took a swipe at the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Babachir Lawal, over his recent criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration.
Mumuni urged Mr. Lawal to manage his emotions wisely, noting the intensity of anger he dishes out and the nature of his utterances can contradict the positive attributes he has demonstrated in the past.
He made the statement on the heels of the former SGF’s recent appearance on Channels TV, where he harshly criticised Tinubu.
Lawal had said he would have been sacked, killed, or resign if he were part of the Tinubu administration.
He also uttered some tribalistic rhetorics, describing the Tinubu-led administration as nepotistic while also condemning the removal of the fuel subsidy.
Reacting to Lawal’s TV appearance in a statement he personally signed and titled ‘Babachir Lawal: A Call for Reflection and Responsibility’, the renowned security expert said constructive criticism is valuable to the development of democracy, but it must be conveyed thoughtfully and respectfully for it to contribute positively to the political discourse rather than dilute collective goals.
“It is essential to recognize the weight of our words, especially in the political arena where public perception plays a crucial role,” the APC chieftain said in the statement.
“The intensity of your anger and the nature of your utterances can distract from the positive attributes you have demonstrated in past engagements, particularly during our conversations at President Tinubu’s residence in the UK, on multiple occasions before the 2023 election.”
Mumuni, who was a member of the intelligence and security team, a directorate of the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), recalled one of those engagements that was also attended by Senator Mohammed Sani Musa of Niger State and Uncle Akinyelure.
“We shared moments where we discussed ambitions and future collaborations, and it’s unsettling to witness a shift from those productive dialogues to the current rhetorics.
“As someone who has had the privilege of engaging with the President almost nightly, I find it perplexing that the same individual who sought to align with us seems now to express sentiments that undermine our collective efforts.”
Mumuni said Lawal’s current rhetoric raises a question of integrity and respect for the office of the President, asking if he has lost sight of the pride and dignity that should guide political pursuits.
He urged the former SGF to reflect on the impact of his words and consider the long-term consequences they may have.
Mumuni said it is possible to build a political environment grounded in respect and responsibility, ultimately benefiting the nation and citizens.
“Let us engage in dialogues that uplift and unite rather than divide,” he advised.
