Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, has defended his controversial remarks describing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as “Kachalla,” insisting that his comments were directed at the presidential ambition of the former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate and not the Fulani ethnic group.
In a lengthy statement titled “Kachalla 2”, Lawal responded to criticisms and attacks that followed his earlier comments, claiming that many of his critics deliberately ignored the substance of his arguments while focusing on what he described as misinterpretations of his remarks.
The former SGF also revisited the circumstances surrounding his removal from office during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, maintaining that allegations linked to the controversial grass-cutting contract were politically motivated and designed to force him out of government. He argued that subsequent investigations and court proceedings cleared him of wrongdoing.
Lawal alleged that the controversy surrounding the contract was orchestrated by political interests uncomfortable with his close relationship with the late President Buhari, whom he described as his long-time mentor. He further claimed that investigations into the matter ultimately failed to establish any criminal wrongdoing against him.
Responding to accusations that his “Kachalla” remarks amounted to an attack on the Fulani ethnic group, Lawal said his criticism was focused on Atiku’s suitability for the presidency and concerns about the political direction of the country. He argued that questioning the character and competence of individuals seeking elective office remains a legitimate part of democratic engagement.
The former SGF also accused supporters of the former vice president of launching coordinated attacks against him on social media, insisting that he would continue to express his views on national issues despite the backlash.
Lawal further questioned Atiku’s public responses to incidents of insecurity and banditry across parts of the country, arguing that Nigerians have a right to scrutinise the positions and actions of those seeking the nation’s highest office.
He concluded by urging political parties to field candidates they believe are best positioned to address Nigeria’s challenges, while reaffirming his commitment to participating in national political discourse.
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