Sule Lamido – Tinubu Misusing Presidential Office to Combat PDP on Behalf of APC

Sule Lamido, the former governor of Jigawa State, has accused President Bola Tinubu of leveraging his esteemed position to launch attacks against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

A founding member of the PDP, Lamido emphasized that since taking office, Tinubu’s role should be that of a unifying leader, adhering to the nation’s constitution and regulatory framework.

However, Lamido contended that Tinubu has transformed the presidency into a political entity serving the interests of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“The Office of the President, which should embody the nation’s ideals, has been diminished to function as a partisan office. If the APC, as a political entity, wishes to contest with us, that is acceptable.

However, it is inappropriate for the president to wield his office to actively oppose the PDP,” Lamido remarked in a recent interview with reporters .

He further raised alarms about the alleged intimidation of PDP members in states such as Rivers and Delta where opposition party leaders are based. “The ongoing harassment of PDP members in these states is concerning and troubling,” he stated.

Lamido criticized Tinubu’s stance on corruption, asserting that the president lacks moral authority due to past allegations regarding his tenure as governor of Lagos State and his current administration.

“Considering comments made by Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, in 2003 regarding Tinubu’s governance, I believe he lacks the ethical standing to address issues of corruption,” Lamido argued.

He pointed out that the president’s administration appears to misuse state institutions for political gain, citing projects that raise concerns about nepotism and abuse of power.

“The manner in which Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa was harassed and blackmailed over allegations illustrates a troubling misuse of authority. I don’t believe Tinubu possesses the moral authority to engage in discussions about corruption,” he added.

Sule Lamido the former governor of Jigawa State expressed deep apprehension over the perceived erosion of the presidency’s integrity, warning that it has been diminished to serve political ends.

“Dismantling the PDP and utilizing government resources in this manner is counterproductive to Tinubu’s interests. He requires the PDP’s cooperation more than he realizes; destroying it could lead to significant repercussions for him. I implore him to separate the Office of the President from that of the APC. His interference in PDP matters is detrimental not only to him but also to the country’s image and stability. This behavior poses a risk to all of us,” Lamido concluded.

Commenting on the current administration’s approach to combating corruption in Nigeria, Lamido asserted, “Corruption is now in control of the country.”

He elaborated, stating, “Take the road contract between Lagos and Calabar as an example—there was no public advertisement for tenders, no competitive bidding, and no adherence to due process. It wasn’t included in the budget, nor was it approved by the National Assembly. One individual was solely responsible for awarding the contract, and we’re expected to discuss corruption? I find that hard to accept.”