According to Israel Sunny-Goli, a former member of the House of Representatives, Babachir Lawal lacked the authority to criticize President Bola Tinubu’s travel to Rome.
Lawal, the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, called Tinubu’s trip to the Vatican for Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration last Sunday an affront to Nigerian Christians, according to Naija News.
The former SGF asserts that a Christian, not a Muslim, ought to have headed Nigeria’s trip to the Vatican.
The Muslim-Muslim ticket was an affront to Nigerian Christian communities, he continued, and Tinubu’s visit to the Vatican confirmed this.
Sunny-Goli said in a statement on Friday that Lawal had no moral authority to criticize the President.
Tinubu’s visit to the Vatican demonstrated religious harmony in the nation, according to the lawmaker who represented the Brass/Nembe seat in the House.
Lawal’s attack on the President, he said, was intended to restore his waning political significance.
He said: “The administration of Tinubu continues to emphasize unity, tolerance, and coexistence, reinforcing the necessity of a peaceful Nigeria.”
“Nothing illustrates his dedication to religious tolerance more than his visit to the Vatican, where he met with Pope Leo XIV during the Holy Father’s investiture.
“It is regrettable that Mr. Babachir Lawal, who should be reflecting on his tenure and past controversies, has instead chosen to posture as a moral authority.
“His previous dismissal as SGF due to the infamous grass-cutting contract scandal is a well-documented matter that raises serious questions about his credibility in judging others.
“Furthermore, his display of religious bigotry during an interview on Arise Television on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, underscores his lack of moral standing to question the president’s actions.
“He still has very little political clout, especially in his own community. He pursues political relevance like a drowning man clutching at straws, and this must explain his desperation.
“Unity and respect for one another must be maintained at this critical juncture in Nigeria’s history. No amount of unwarranted criticism can undermine President Tinubu’s unshakeable dedication to inclusivity and his vision for a peaceful, forward-thinking country.
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