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Science and Technology
Source : (remove) : The Daily Beast
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Science and Technology
Source : (remove) : The Daily Beast
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"Tinubu govt deliberately destroying the North," says Babachir Lawal

Babachir Lawal Backs Kwankwaso for 2027 Presidency, Accuses Tinubu of Anti-North Agenda

In a bold and provocative move ahead of the 2027 Nigerian presidential elections, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Babachir David Lawal has thrown his weight behind Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and a prominent northern politician. Lawal, a vocal critic of the current administration, made these declarations during a recent interview, where he lambasted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for allegedly pursuing policies that undermine the interests of northern Nigeria. This endorsement and the accompanying allegations have stirred significant debate in political circles, highlighting deepening regional tensions and the evolving dynamics of Nigeria's political landscape as the next election cycle approaches.

Lawal, who served as SGF under former President Muhammadu Buhari from 2015 until his controversial dismissal in 2017 over corruption allegations (which he has consistently denied), has positioned himself as a staunch defender of northern interests. His support for Kwankwaso comes at a time when the North is grappling with economic hardships, security challenges, and perceived marginalization under the Tinubu administration. Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State and a two-time presidential candidate, is seen by many as a symbol of northern resilience and progressive politics. Lawal's backing could potentially galvanize support for Kwankwaso, especially among disaffected northern voters who feel alienated by the current government's policies.

During the interview, Lawal did not mince words in his criticism of President Tinubu. He accused the president of deliberately promoting an "anti-North agenda" through a series of decisions that, in his view, disproportionately affect the northern region. One of the key points Lawal raised was the relocation of certain federal agencies from Abuja to Lagos, which he described as a calculated move to strip the North of economic opportunities and administrative influence. "This is not just about efficiency; it's a blatant attempt to centralize power in the South-West at the expense of the North," Lawal reportedly stated. He argued that such relocations undermine the federal character principle enshrined in Nigeria's constitution, which aims to ensure equitable distribution of resources and opportunities across regions.

Lawal further elaborated on how these policies exacerbate the North's existing challenges. He pointed to the region's high poverty rates, unemployment, and insecurity, suggesting that Tinubu's administration has failed to address these issues adequately. For instance, he criticized the handling of the farmer-herder conflicts and banditry in northern states, claiming that the government's response has been lackluster and biased. "The North is bleeding, and instead of healing the wounds, the president is pouring salt on them by prioritizing southern interests," Lawal alleged. He drew parallels to historical grievances, referencing how northern leaders have often felt sidelined in national decision-making, a sentiment that fueled the rise of figures like Buhari in previous elections.

The former SGF's endorsement of Kwankwaso is particularly noteworthy given Kwankwaso's political trajectory. Kwankwaso, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to form the NNPP ahead of the 2023 elections, secured a significant vote share in the North, particularly in Kano, where his Kwankwasiyya movement holds strong sway. Lawal praised Kwankwaso as a "true son of the North" who understands the region's needs and has a proven track record of development during his tenure as Kano governor. "Kwankwaso is the leader we need in 2027. He has the vision, the experience, and the commitment to unite Nigeria while protecting northern interests," Lawal said. This support could be a game-changer for Kwankwaso, who is already positioning himself as a formidable contender against potential rivals like Atiku Abubakar of the PDP and possibly Tinubu himself if he seeks re-election.

Lawal's comments also touch on broader themes of ethnic and regional politics in Nigeria. He accused Tinubu of favoritism towards the Yoruba ethnic group, citing appointments and policy decisions that appear to benefit the South-West disproportionately. For example, Lawal highlighted the concentration of key economic portfolios in the hands of southern appointees, which he believes marginalizes northern technocrats and leaders. "This is not the Nigeria we fought for. The North contributed immensely to Tinubu's victory in 2023, yet we are being treated as second-class citizens," he lamented. These allegations resonate with a growing chorus of northern voices, including some from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Tinubu's own party, who have expressed dissatisfaction with the administration's direction.

To provide context, it's essential to recall the political alliances that shaped the 2023 elections. Tinubu, a southerner from Lagos, won the presidency with significant support from northern voters, partly due to the APC's Muslim-Muslim ticket that included Kashim Shettima, a northerner, as vice president. However, post-election realities have led to disillusionment. Economic reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies and currency devaluation have hit northern agrarian communities hard, leading to skyrocketing food prices and widespread hardship. Lawal's critique taps into this discontent, positioning Kwankwaso as an alternative who could restore balance.

Moreover, Lawal addressed the potential for a northern coalition in 2027. He suggested that Kwankwaso could form alliances with other northern heavyweights, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and perhaps even elements within the APC dissatisfied with Tinubu. "The North must unite to reclaim its rightful place. Kwankwaso is the rallying point," he urged. This call for unity underscores the strategic importance of the northern vote bank, which has historically decided presidential outcomes in Nigeria's multi-ethnic democracy.

Critics of Lawal, however, dismiss his statements as opportunistic and driven by personal grudges. Some point to his fallout with the Buhari administration and his previous support for Peter Obi in 2023 as evidence of inconsistency. Defenders of Tinubu argue that the president's policies are national in scope and aimed at long-term economic recovery, not regional bias. For instance, the administration has invested in northern infrastructure projects, such as road networks and agricultural initiatives, though these have been overshadowed by immediate economic pains.

As the 2027 elections draw nearer, Lawal's intervention adds fuel to an already heated political discourse. It raises questions about the stability of the APC and the potential for opposition coalitions. Kwankwaso's camp has welcomed the endorsement, with spokespersons indicating it could broaden his appeal beyond Kano. Meanwhile, the Tinubu administration has yet to respond directly, but sources close to the presidency suggest they view such criticisms as baseless attempts to incite division.

In summary, Babachir Lawal's backing of Rabiu Kwankwaso and his scathing allegations against President Tinubu highlight the fragility of Nigeria's regional balance. As economic and security challenges persist, the North's role in shaping the 2027 contest cannot be underestimated. Whether this leads to a seismic shift in alliances or merely amplifies existing tensions remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly sets the stage for a contentious electoral battle. Lawal's voice, with its mix of regional advocacy and national critique, serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of identity politics in Nigeria's quest for unity and progress.

This development also invites reflection on the broader implications for Nigerian democracy. With figures like Lawal openly challenging the status quo, it underscores the need for inclusive governance that addresses regional disparities. Kwankwaso's potential candidacy, bolstered by such endorsements, could redefine opposition strategies, focusing on grassroots mobilization and policy alternatives to counter the APC's narrative. As more voices join the fray, the path to 2027 promises to be one of intense maneuvering, where regional loyalties and national aspirations collide.

Furthermore, delving deeper into Kwankwaso's appeal, his Kwankwasiyya ideology emphasizes education, infrastructure, and empowerment, which resonated strongly in the 2023 polls. Lawal's support aligns with this, portraying Kwankwaso as a bridge between traditional northern values and modern governance needs. On the flip side, Tinubu's alleged anti-North agenda, as per Lawal, includes not just agency relocations but also fiscal policies that favor southern ports and industries, potentially at the North's expense.

In conclusion, this episode encapsulates the high stakes of Nigerian politics, where endorsements and accusations can sway public opinion and electoral fortunes. As the nation watches, the interplay between Lawal's criticisms and Kwankwaso's ambitions will likely shape the discourse leading up to 2027, testing the resilience of Nigeria's federal structure. (Word count: 1,128)

Read the Full legit Article at:
[ https://www.legit.ng/politics/1666537-2027-election-sgf-babachir-backs-kwankwaso-alleges-tinubu-promoting-anti-north-agenda/ ]