Babachir Lawal defends “Kachalla” posts, rejects allegations, criticises attacks

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Babachir Lawal

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Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal, has responded to criticisms trailing his recent social media commentary, insisting that his earlier remarks have been misunderstood and misrepresented by his critics.

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In a lengthy post shared on his Facebook page on Saturday titled “Kachalla 2,” Lawal said he had come under heavy attacks, insults, and threats following his earlier comments, which he said were being taken out of context.

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He alleged that many of his critics focused on personal attacks rather than engaging with the substance of his arguments.

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Lawal revisited past controversies surrounding his tenure in office, maintaining that allegations previously levelled against him were politically motivated. He referenced his relationship with former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing it as longstanding and personal, and suggested that political interests had contributed to his removal from office.

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He also defended the circumstances surrounding a contract awarded during his time in government, insisting that due process was followed and that he was eventually discharged by the court after legal proceedings.

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According to him, the case did not result in any financial loss to government, adding that all involved contracts were executed and certified by relevant auditing authorities.

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Lawal further addressed criticisms linked to his reference to “grass cutting,” explaining that it related to environmental remediation and irrigation-related projects along the Komadugu Yobe River, which he said were aimed at improving livelihoods and supporting agriculture in affected communities.

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He also highlighted what he described as the broader impact of the intervention, including irrigation development, provision of agricultural tools, and job creation for displaced persons during the project period.

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Beyond the earlier controversy, Lawal used the post to criticise political opponents and social media commentators, particularly supporters of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, accusing them of misrepresentation and personal attacks.

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He also questioned the silence of political actors on insecurity and violence in parts of the country, while drawing attention to broader concerns about governance, national unity, and accountability in leadership.

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Lawal reiterated his position that public office aspirants should be subject to scrutiny regarding their records, competence, and public statements, adding that such interrogation is part of democratic engagement.

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He maintained that his comments were made in the interest of national discourse and insisted he would not be intimidated by online criticism.

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The former SGF concluded by reaffirming his stance on political accountability and engagement, while expressing frustration over what he described as coordinated online attacks against him.

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