A former member of the House of Representatives from Bayelsa State, Rt. Hon. Israel Sunny-Goli, has strongly condemned recent comments by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, who described President Bola Tinubu’s visit to the Vatican as an insult to Christianity.
Hon. Sunny-Goli, now a traditional ruler in the Brass Kingdom, described Lawal’s remarks as a “desperate cry for political relevance,” likening him to a drowning man clutching at straws. He said Lawal’s outburst reflects not only poor judgment but a failed attempt to ignite religious sentiments for personal gain.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Sunny-Goli emphasized that President Tinubu’s visit to the Vatican is a powerful symbol of Nigeria’s commitment to religious tolerance and interfaith unity. He noted that Tinubu’s administration has consistently upheld religious neutrality and inclusivity across all regions and communities.
“President Tinubu’s meeting with Pope Leo XIV during the Holy Father’s investiture is a clear demonstration of his dedication to peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among faiths,” Sunny-Goli stated. “This visit should be celebrated as a step toward healing religious divides, not weaponized for political attacks.”
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He accused Babachir Lawal of hypocrisy, recalling the former SGF’s scandal-ridden tenure, particularly his controversial involvement in the grass-cutting contract saga that led to his dismissal. According to him, Lawal lacks the moral credibility to lecture others on matters of integrity or governance.
“Rather than reflect on his own past, Babachir Lawal has chosen to masquerade as a moral compass for the nation. His recent appearance on Arise Television, laced with religious bigotry, further proves he is unfit to speak on national unity or leadership,” Sunny-Goli added.
The Bayelsa monarch reaffirmed that Lawal’s political influence has dwindled to near insignificance, even within his own constituency, which he said explains the ex-SGF’s constant attempts to stir controversy and remain in the public eye.
At a time when Nigeria faces critical challenges requiring unity and cooperation, Hon. Sunny-Goli said the President’s unwavering focus on inclusivity, peace, and national progress cannot be derailed by the misplaced criticisms of those clinging to the past.
