War of Words: Ex-Rep Sunny-Goli Destroys Lawal’s Image in Public Clash”

A former member of the House of Representatives, Israel Sunny-Goli, has asserted that Babachir Lawal lacks the credibility to criticise President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Rome.

Sunny-Goli was reacting to remarks made by the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, who condemned Tinubu’s recent visit to the Vatican for the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV. Lawal had claimed the visit was disrespectful to Nigerian Christians, arguing that it should have been led by a Christian vice president, not a Muslim president. He further reiterated that the Muslim-Muslim ticket was an affront to Christian communities in the country.

In a statement issued on Friday, Sunny-Goli dismissed Lawal’s comments as hypocritical, saying he has no moral standing to question President Tinubu’s actions.

According to Sunny-Goli, Tinubu’s Vatican visit symbolised religious unity and tolerance—values that his administration continues to champion.

He said:
“President Tinubu’s leadership remains committed to unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence among all Nigerians. His meeting with Pope Leo XIV during the Holy Father’s investiture is a testament to that commitment.”

“It is unfortunate that Mr. Babachir Lawal, rather than introspecting on his own tenure and controversies, seeks to pose as a moral compass.”

Sunny-Goli reminded the public of Lawal’s dismissal from office over the widely publicised grass-cutting scandal, which, he said, calls into question Lawal’s credibility in casting judgment.

He further criticised Lawal’s comments during an appearance on Arise Television on May 21, 2025, describing them as a clear display of religious intolerance.

“Lawal’s influence is practically nonexistent, even in his own constituency. His outbursts are nothing more than desperate attempts to regain fading political relevance,” Sunny-Goli concluded.