Tinubu played pivotal role in forming APC, funding Buhari’s 2015 campaign – Ex-SGF
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Babachir Lawal has claimed that President Bola Tinubu was instrumental in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and provided critical funding for former President Muhammadu Buhari’s 2015 campaign. According to Lawal, he acted as a bridge between Buhari and Tinubu during the merger process aimed at defeating the Peoples Democratic Party.
Lawal stated that Buhari initially tasked him with forming the APC because of his relationship with Tinubu but eventually accepted after Buhari's insistence. 'I was in Dubai when you called me that I should come out because we want to do a merger with ACN,’ Lawal recounted, ‘And I told you, sir, this role you want me to play, I cannot play it… So, Buhari said, You are the only one that can help us do this merger because Bola is your friend.’
Key Funding Role of Tinubu
According to Lawal, Tinubu played a decisive role in securing funding for the campaign and also funded former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo's activities. 'Through him (Tinubu), we were able to raise sufficient funds to do the campaign,' he said. ‘Not only did he do that, Osinbajo’s portion of the campaign, he funded it, hired a chartered plane to fund the trip because Osinbajo’s campaign was a little bit broken away from the main campaign.’
Obtaining Buhari's Support at Convention
At the APC presidential convention, Lawal said Tinubu analyzed supportive data and helped secure crucial support needed for Buhari to emerge as the party’s candidate. 'I have this data… This man (Buhari), whether he is on the ballot or not, he normally gets 12 million votes from the north. So it required three more million votes… Sir, why not support your winning ticket?' Lawal told Tinubu after analyzing delegate strengths late into the night.
Faithful Supporters and Campaign Expenditures
Lawal described Tinubu as high on funds, personally bearing major campaign expenditures. 'And there's another thing about Bola Tinubu: if there’s a need for an expenditure, no matter how massive, he doesn’t come to the campaign purse; he spends from his own pocket,' Lawal said.
Frequently Asked Questions
What role did Buhari assign to Tinubu in forming APC?
Buhari initially tasked Lawal with forming APC because of their connection, but insisted that only Babachir could bridge the gap between them during the merger process.
How did Tinubu fund crucial parts of Buhari's 2015 campaign?
Tinubu provided substantial financial backing for both the main party and Osinbajo’s breakaway campaign, ensuring they had sufficient resources to challenge the incumbent government.