Some prominent Nigerians from the north have disassociated themselves from remarks credited to a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, about the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
Under the auspices of the Northern Congress for Change (NCC), the group said Lawal doesn’t represent the interest of the north, noting that his assertions are unfounded and spurious.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja, convener of the group, Dr. Ben Amodu, said that President Tinubu in less than one year in office has already outdone done better than his predecessor Muhammadu Buhari.
Amodu said the current administration has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to inclusive leadership, skillfully balancing the diverse socio-political and religious inclinations of the nation.
The group, therefore, accused corrupt individuals like Lawal to be behind campaign against the President as they will remain inconsequential and irrelevant in a discussion of prosperous government.
“Despite the vociferous opposition from unpatriotic elements who have long benefited from the corrupt subsidy regime, President Tinubu remains resolute and focused on his comprehensive agenda, undeterred by the cacophony of criticism from those hell-bent on perpetuating the status quo,” the statement said.
“Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is experiencing unprecedented economic growth. The administration’s policies have attracted foreign investment, boosted local production, and created jobs. The President’s commitment to diversifying the economy has yielded positive results, with sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology flourishing. The country is now on a path towards self-sufficiency and reduced dependence on oil revenue.
“We are witnessing a new era of economic prosperity, and we must commend the Group CEO of NNPC Limited, Mr Mele Kyari for his tireless efforts in transforming the oil sector. His visionary leadership and innovative initiatives have revolutionized the industry, placing Nigeria on the path to economic prosperity.
“We put it forward to everyone that, David Babachir Lawal’s statements are not only misguided but also hypocritical. As someone still reeling from the grass-cutting scandal and his failed support for Peter Obi, he lacks the moral authority, and temerity to criticize President Tinubu’s administration.
“Lawal’s involvement in the grass-cutting scandal and subsequent removal from office due to allegations of financial impropriety significantly tarnished his reputation. Lawal will always be Inconsequential and irrelevant in a discussion of prosperous government. His utterances are a desperate attempt to distract from his own failures and those of his preferred candidate.
“It is imperative to acknowledge that transformation and progress are often confronted with obstinate opposition. The criticisms voiced by Babachir David Lawal exemplify this phenomenon, wherein vested interests and reactionary elements seek to impede the march of progress.
“Nevertheless, we must not permit the dissonant voices of the past to stifle the remarkable advancements of the present. As we gaze into the future, a plethora of promising prospects await Nigeria. The President’s visionary blueprint for a thriving and harmonious nation is steadily materializing.
“We are beholding the emergence of a novel generation of leaders who are unwaveringly dedicated to the well-being and prosperity of the Nigerian populace. With the implementation of judicious policies and the sustained support of the citizenry, we possess the capacity to overcome any obstacles that may arise, ultimately propelling our nation towards a brighter tomorrow.
“The Northern Congress for Change implores Nigerians to disregard the unfounded and spurious assertions made by David Babachir Lawal, and instead, concentrate on the tangible progress and significant strides being made under the visionary leadership of President Tinubu. It is imperative to subject Lawal’s statements to rigorous scrutiny, considering his own chequered history and the consequences of his past affiliations and actions, which have been marked by controversy and divisiveness.”