Buhari wanted Osinbajo to be president – Akande fires back at Babachir Lawal

The statement contradicts claims by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, that Buhari would have considered it immoral and distasteful for Osinbajo to contest against President Bola Tinubu, who had recommended him for the vice-presidential position. Lawal argued that Buhari placed a high premium on loyalty and would have been uncomfortable with Osinbajo challenging the politician who helped bring him into national politics.

However, Akande, in a statement released on Saturday titled, “A Response to Mr Babachir Lawal’s Falsehoods Against Prof. Yemi Osinbajo,” said the former president’s words and actions contradicted that account. “On at least four separate occasions, President Buhari personally offered to support the Vice President, telling him plainly: ‘If I don’t support you, who will I support?’”

Akande said. He added that Buhari publicly commended Osinbajo during a Federal Executive Council meeting in 2022, while campaigns for the APC presidential ticket were ongoing.