By Becky Usman

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), David Babachir Lawal, has criticized President Bola Tinubu and the leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for allegedly shifting the party’s identity from a national party to what he perceives as an Islamic party.

In a recent statement issued in Abuja, Babachir Lawal challenged the APC to exhibit the courage to rebrand itself as the Islamic Party of Nigeria, given what he believes is the party’s current direction.

This statement comes in response to strong remarks made against him by the APC after he asserted that Peter Obi, not Bola Tinubu, won the 2023 presidential election.

In his statement, Babachir Lawal stood by his position and urged the APC to address the substantive issues he raised rather than engaging in criticism.

He criticized the party’s shift from its initial intention to be a national party embracing all religious and socio-political tendencies in Nigeria, mentioning the deliberate inclusion of members from diverse backgrounds in the party’s leadership.

Babalola claimed that the party has now transitioned into an Islamic Party of Nigeria, emphasizing that the majority of key positions within the party are held by Muslims. He cited their campaign promises and the government’s policies as evidence of this transition, noting that the Deputy National Chairman North, National Organizing Secretary, National Legal Adviser, and several National Vice Chairmen are all Muslims.

Regarding electoral performance, Babachir Lawal mentioned that both the National Chairman and National Secretary of the party faced defeats in the February 25 election.

He also expressed concerns about the perceived erosion of freedom of speech and the government’s actions against journalists, as well as the prolonged detention of the EFCC Chairman and CBN Governor. Babachir Lawal called for a Nigeria that works for all and guarantees freedom of speech, suggesting that these principles should apply to all, regardless of their tribe or religion.

He concluded by reiterating his belief that Peter Obi won the majority of votes in the 2023 presidential election, emphasizing that he stands by his assertion despite the disputes surrounding the election’s conduct.