Former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of weaponising government institutions to suppress democratic processes. Speaking during a media interaction in Kano, Lamido expressed concerns about the current political climate as Nigeria moves towards the 2027 general elections.
Lamido alleged that agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) were being used to intimidate opposition figures. Citing a recent case, he said: “Take Okowa, for instance — he was the PDP’s vice-presidential candidate and suddenly faces N1.3 trillion corruption allegations. Then he joins the APC, and just like that, no EFCC, no case. Everything disappears.”
He said the situation reinforces Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s widely circulated remark: “Once you join APC, your sins are forgiven.” Although Oshiomhole has denied making the statement, Lamido insisted the sentiment reflects the reality under Tinubu's government.
He also accused the administration of employing divide-and-rule tactics, warning that the misuse of state power and manipulation of national institutions are eroding Nigeria’s democratic foundation and fueling insecurity, distrust, and disunity.
“Nigeria today is not the Nigeria of 25 years ago. There is no security, no stability, no trust. You can't build a united nation when its people are divided and disillusioned,” Lamido said.
On potential political coalitions for the 2027 elections, Lamido contrasted current efforts with the more structured 2014 alliance that gave birth to the APC. He described today's coalition talks as fragmented and personality-driven.
“In 2014, we had a coalition of political structures — CPC, ACN, ANPP, and PDP defectors. Today, it’s just individuals coming together, without any institutional backing or shared vision,” he said.
Lamido emphasized that any credible coalition must be based on shared democratic values, unity, and the collective goal of securing Nigeria — not personal ambition or revenge.
Despite ongoing internal issues within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Lamido reaffirmed his loyalty to the party.
“I remain a PDP member. I was made, detained, harassed, and almost killed for PDP. I can’t deny my legacy. However, I will support any initiative — whether within or outside PDP — that prioritizes Nigeria’s security and progress in 2027,” he said.
Responding to accusations of anti-party behavior, Lamido defended his actions, stating: “If advocating for PDP’s return to its core values is anti-party, then so be it. In 2023 I was labelled anti-party, but what about 2014 when several PDP governors defected to form the APC? Wasn’t that the ultimate anti-party act?”
He criticized what he called hypocrisy within PDP ranks, pointing out that some sitting governors and officials continue to support Tinubu while remaining in the party.
“There are PDP governors and ministers who are clearly working for Tinubu. Yet I’m the one being called anti-party? If I must go against the grain to rebuild Nigeria, I will,” he declared.
Lamido concluded by urging the PDP to recommit to its founding ideals — fairness, transparency, and internal democracy — if it hopes to regain national influence.
“The party currently lacks the courage to do what is right. If PDP finds its moral compass, it can rise again — but not under the leadership of double-faced politicians,” he said.
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