KEY POINTS

• Atiku Abubakar has condemned former SGF Babachir Lawal for what he described as dangerous ethnic and divisive rhetoric.
• He accused Babachir of making claims without evidence and warned against linking entire ethnic groups to criminal acts.
• Atiku defended his record in public service and urged leaders to focus on unity, not ethnic politics.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, over what he described as “dangerous and ethnically charged rhetoric,” warning that such comments could deepen national divisions.

The criticism was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu.

Atiku said Babachir’s recent public comments relied on ethnic profiling and conspiracy theories rather than evidence-based arguments.

He argued that it is dangerous and irresponsible to associate an entire ethnic group with the criminal actions of a few individuals.

According to him, such reasoning undermines national unity and encourages distrust among citizens.

He added that Nigeria’s diversity should be a source of strength rather than a basis for division or political manipulation.

Reference to Past Political Roles

The former Vice President also pointed out what he described as contradictions in Babachir Lawal’s position, noting that he once served under a Fulani President, Muhammadu Buhari, without objecting to the appointment at the time.

Atiku said it was therefore inconsistent for Babachir to now criticise another Fulani political figure while previously benefiting from service under a Fulani-led administration.

He questioned what he described as conflicting public positions, suggesting that Babachir was driven by political grievances rather than principle.

Atiku further highlighted what he called contradictions in Babachir’s public statements, noting that the former SGF had both criticised political actors and simultaneously claimed influence within political circles.

He said such behaviour raises questions about credibility and consistency in public discourse.

According to him, political engagement should be guided by honesty and clarity rather than shifting positions based on personal interest.

The former Vice President also defended his public service record, rejecting claims that he had ignored victims of insecurity across the country.

He said he has consistently spoken out against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence affecting both Christians and Muslims.

Atiku referenced his past humanitarian interventions, including support for victims of attacks in various parts of the country.

He also highlighted his involvement in educational initiatives, including scholarships provided to some of the Chibok schoolgirls after their release.