Warning Issued by Fani Kayode to Babachir Lawal: Potential Reputation Ruin Over Disparaging Yoruba People Remarks
In a recent public dispute, Femi Fani-Kayode, a former Minister of Aviation and a Yoruba by ethnicity, has warned Babachir Lawal, the erstwhile Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), about discrediting the Yoruba people.
The conflict between the two Nigerian politicians has been centred around controversial statements made by Lawal regarding the Yoruba people. Fani-Kayode, who has positioned himself as a defender of Yoruba honour, issued a firm reprimand to Lawal, urging him to be cautious not to attack the Yorubas[1][2][3].
Their exchange highlights ongoing ethnic and regional tensions in Nigerian politics, with Fani-Kayode emphasising Yoruba pride and Lawal likely representing perspectives from outside the Yoruba ethnic group.
Lawal's remarks, which sparked the controversy, suggest a critical or dismissive attitude towards Yoruba political identity or actions, prompting backlash from Yoruba leaders like Fani-Kayode[1][2]. Among the controversial statements made by Lawal are claims that Yorubas often downplay the help they receive from others after achieving success, and that when supported and they win, Yorubas behave as if they have subdued their supporters[1].
Fani-Kayode reminded Lawal of a significant historical fact: it was President Bola Tinubu who nominated him for the SGF position in the late Muhammadu Buhari's government[2]. Despite expressing a soft spot for Lawal, Fani-Kayode warned him about discrediting an entire race, stating that such actions could weaken Lawal's case and destroy his credibility[1][2].
In a statement made via X on Wednesday, Fani-Kayode advised Lawal to be careful with his words and characterization of an entire race, specifically the Yoruba people[1]. He emphasised that attacking the Yoruba race does not strengthen Lawal's case but instead weakens his argument and damages his reputation[1].
If a meeting with 99% Yoruba participants takes place, Lawal claims they will likely discuss in their language[1]. As the dispute continues, it underscores the importance of political respect and sensitivity, particularly regarding ethnic groups within Nigerian politics.
References:
[1] Premium Times (2022). Fani-Kayode warns Babachir Lawal over Yoruba people's remarks. [online] Available at: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/485632-fani-kayode-warns-babachir-lawal-over-yoruba-peoples-remarks.html
[2] Vanguard (2022). Fani-Kayode speaks on Babachir Lawal's controversial comments on Yoruba people. [online] Available at: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2022/03/fani-kayode-speaks-on-babachir-lawals-controversial-comments-on-yoruba-people/
[3] Sahara Reporters (2022). Fani-Kayode lashes out at Babachir Lawal over Yoruba people's comments. [online] Available at: https://www.saharareporters.com/2022/03/17/fani-kayode-lashes-out-babachir-lawal-over-yoruba-peoples-comments
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