Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has claimed that late President Muhammadu Buhari declined to publicly endorse Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the APC presidential primary because of personal religious and ethical reservations.
Speaking in an interview with Symfoni TV, Lawal said Buhari was initially uncomfortable supporting Tinubu but later agreed to remain neutral after discussions that focused on allowing party delegates to freely choose the presidential candidate.
According to him, Buhari recognised Tinubu’s significant contributions to the APC’s previous electoral successes and believed it would be unfair to actively oppose his presidential ambition.
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Lawal said he advised the former president to avoid endorsing any aspirant before the June 2022 convention, arguing that the party faithful should determine the outcome without presidential interference.
President Bola Tinubu and Muhammadu Buhari. Photo Credit: State House
He recalled that Buhari initially opposed the idea, believing Tinubu would eventually emerge as the party’s candidate if left to the delegates.
Lawal added that he assured Buhari that even if Tinubu won the APC ticket, Nigerians would still decide the outcome during the general election.
He also claimed Buhari expressed concerns about whether Tinubu would be fair to members of his political camp if elected president before eventually agreeing to remain neutral.
Ahead of the APC presidential primary, Buhari consistently urged delegates to elect the best candidate for the party without publicly backing any of the aspirants.
Tinubu eventually won the APC presidential ticket after defeating several leading contenders, including Yemi Osinbajo, Rotimi Amaechi, Ahmad Lawan and Yahaya Bello.
He subsequently won the February 2023 presidential election and assumed office on May 29, 2023.
Lawal’s remarks provide his account of events surrounding the APC primary. The claims have not been independently verified.
