On Tuesday, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, offered a detailed explanation regarding former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal’s public criticisms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration.
Wike suggested that Lawal’s grievances are deeply rooted in personal disappointment over Tinubu’s choice of a running mate during the 2023 presidential election.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Wike revealed that Lawal had visited him at his residence in Port Harcourt shortly after President Tinubu announced Kashim Shettima as his vice-presidential candidate.
“He was visibly upset because he had expected the President to pick him as vice president,” Wike said.
The Minister described Lawal’s visit as one fueled by both surprise and frustration, underscoring that political expectations can sometimes result in personal disappointment.
In the same interview, Wike defended President Tinubu against claims that his administration is inaccessible or unapproachable.
He emphasized that governance, by nature, involves a structured system of delegation.
“Governance is not about one person doing everything. It is about teamwork. Nigerians should engage ministers, special advisers, and other officials rather than expecting direct access to the President,” he explained.
Wike elaborated on how the Nigerian government operates: “I am the Minister in charge of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Z oversees Interior, and Mrs. O manages Trade, Investment, and Industry.
“It is not practical for everyone to go directly to the President. If everyone bypasses ministers and advisers, the President would be overwhelmed. For example, if you have an issue about the FCT, reaching out to the FCT Minister is the correct channel.”
The Minister’s comments come after Babachir Lawal, a vocal critic of the Tinubu administration, recently described the government as unapproachable and claimed that he would not have survived in Tinubu’s cabinet had he been appointed.
Lawal also questioned the legitimacy of the 2023 election results, insisting that data available to him at the time suggested a different outcome.
Beyond addressing criticisms, Wike highlighted the administration’s achievements, particularly in the areas of security and counterterrorism.
He noted that international partners, including the United States and the United Kingdom, have praised Nigeria’s security agencies for successfully disrupting terrorist networks and degrading the capabilities of violent groups across the country.
“For years, terrorists have tried to undermine our security efforts, but our agencies have successfully penetrated their operations. These efforts have been recognized and commended by foreign governments,” Wike said.
The Minister also acknowledged the economic challenges Nigerians are currently facing, particularly following reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies.
While he admitted that fuel prices initially spiked, Wike noted that prices have begun to stabilize, signaling market adjustment.
He further stressed that economic hardship affects both rural and urban communities, dispelling the notion that only rural populations bear the brunt of difficult economic conditions.
“Economic difficulties are felt by all Nigerians, whether in cities or villages. Every citizen deserves a decent standard of living,” he emphasized.
Wike portrayed President Tinubu as a leader who governs through a structured team approach, defended the government against criticisms of inaccessibility, and underscored the administration’s ongoing efforts in security and economic management.
He also contextualised Lawal’s criticism as stemming from personal political disappointment rather than genuine governance concerns.