Buhari wanted Ahmad Lawan to succeed him, he never liked Tinubu – Sule Lamido

Former Jigawa Governor Sule Lamido has claimed that former President Muhammadu Buhari did not want Bola Tinubu as his successor. Instead, Lamido asserts that Buhari favored Ahmad Lawan, the former Senate President, for the role.

During an interview with the Nigerian Tribune, Lamido criticized Buhari’s political strategy, describing it as “naive and absurd.” He argued that Buhari wanted a northern successor after his eight-year tenure and did not trust Vice President Yemi Osinbajo to take over.

Recalling events before the party’s convention, Lamido mentioned that Tinubu had boldly declared in Abeokuta, Ogun State, that it was his turn to lead Nigeria, while Buhari passively watched.

According to Lamido, Buhari did not support Tinubu, preferring Lawan instead. However, Lamido called Buhari’s plan unrealistic, noting that after eight years of northern leadership, it was unfeasible to expect another northerner to follow.

Lamido also stated that despite being present at the convention, Buhari lacked the resolve to endorse his preferred candidate, leading to Tinubu’s emergence, someone whom Buhari neither liked nor believed in. He added that Tinubu’s victory was not due to Buhari’s influence, and therefore, Tinubu feels no obligation towards him.

The former governor also highlighted Tinubu’s ability to overcome various political obstacles, including opposition from Afenifere, former President Obasanjo, and even a sitting president, to secure the presidency in 2023.

Lamido predicts that defeating Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election will be a significant challenge, given Tinubu’s strong influence over the country and the economy.

He described Tinubu as a self-made man with a history of overcoming adversities, from his time in Chicago to his political battles in Nigeria.