We Don’t Need Buhari to Defeat Tinubu in 2027 – Babachir Lawal Declares
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has asserted that loyalists of President Bola Tinubu and some chieftains of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) are “chasing shadows” by seeking the endorsement of former President Muhammadu Buhari ahead of the 2027 elections.
In an exclusive interview with The Punch, Lawal stressed that Buhari’s blessing is not required for the coalition of opposition figures including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai to unseat the Tinubu administration.
‘Original CPC Members Stand With the Poor’
Lawal, a founding member of the CPC, said the group remains rooted in the ideology of the Talakawa Movement, which prioritizes the welfare of the poor and marginalized in Nigeria.
“These guys have given us a reason to come against them. The CPC is a Talakawa Movement with a mission to uplift the underprivileged,” he said.
He accused the current administration of abandoning those ideals, stating that “this government is determined to marginalize and starve the poor,” making it necessary for real CPC loyalists to rise against it.
‘Buhari Is Not Needed’
When asked about Buhari’s support referenced earlier by former Kaduna Governor El-Rufai—Lawal dismissed the claim:
“We don’t need his blessing. We only informed him. Even if he offers to join, we’ll tell him to stay away. He’s part of this government.”
He emphasized that the opposition movement is mature, independent, and resolute in its mission, regardless of Buhari’s stance.
Coalition With Atiku, Obi Already in Motion
According to Lawal, the coalition between aggrieved CPC figures, the PDP, and LP is already sealed. He dismissed any notion that the administration could prevent its growth, revealing that they are aware of efforts by APC governors to sway Buhari’s loyalty.
“We know what they discussed during Sallah. But we’re prepared. They can’t stop what’s coming,” he added.
Lawal Labels Shittu, Al-Makura as CPC ‘Black Sheep’
Reacting to comments made by former Minister Adebayo Shittu who dismissed the CPC as “a dead horse” Lawal criticized him and ex-Nasarawa Governor Tanko Al-Makura as “black sheep” within the CPC legacy.
“Not everyone in CPC had conviction. Some were there for personal gain. And this government has made hunger unbearable for many,” Lawal said.
He added that those still loyal to President Tinubu are simply positioning themselves for political appointments as rumors circulate about a cabinet reshuffle.
Failed Attempts to Reach Others
Efforts to reach former Attorney General Abubakar Malami and Tanko Al-Makura for comments were unsuccessful, as calls and messages went unanswered at press time.
References
We Don’t Need Buhari to Defeat Tinubu in 2027