Veteran journalist and Arise TV anchor Reuben Abati has criticized former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Babachir Lawal over his recent outburst during a live television interview on TVC News.
The controversial incident occurred when Babachir Lawal was being questioned about his stance on the 2019 and 2023 general elections.
Rather than respond calmly, the ex-SGF blurted out “shut up” to the TV presenter mid-interview, shocking viewers and drawing swift backlash from media professionals and the public.
Abati Reacts: “Let Him Come to Arise and Try It”
Responding on a recent Arise TV broadcast, Reuben Abati didn’t hold back his criticism. He condemned Lawal’s conduct and dared him to repeat such behavior if invited to their studio.
“Let Babachir Lawal come here and try it. And try to say ‘shut up’—the kind of flogging that he will receive… In fact, he will not be able to sleep that night,” Abati said, visibly irritated by the former official’s tone and manner.
The Arise News team echoed Abati’s disapproval, labeling the ex-SGF’s outburst as disrespectful, uncivilized, and unbecoming of a former public officeholder.
The Incident That Sparked Outrage
During the TVC interview, Babachir Lawal was asked to clarify his criticisms of Nigeria’s past elections and his political allegiances. Rather than give a clear response, he interrupted the presenter and bluntly told him to shut up, before continuing his remarks.
His reaction quickly trended on social media, sparking widespread condemnation from viewers and media observers.
Social Media Reactions
The incident has fueled a firestorm on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, with Nigerians voicing their opinions on the matter:
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@yomisrael: “Babachir Lawal, the grass cutter. It’s a shame and I can’t imagine how he treats people working under him.”
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@michael._u: “Reuben wey carry respect for head? Even if e go lead to fight, he no go gree accept that kind talk.😄”
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@adelakuntufayl: “What do you expect from them? A good number of them get carried away by the ephemeral of the office.”
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@dona.ld4010: “That so-called SGF is extremely uncouth.”
A Pattern of Controversy?
Babachir Lawal, who was sacked in 2017 amid a corruption scandal linked to “grass-cutting” contracts under a presidential initiative, has remained a polarizing figure in Nigerian politics. His recent outburst only adds to his controversial public image.
Meanwhile, many Nigerians have praised Reuben Abati and his Arise TV team for standing up against what they described as “verbal intimidation” and defending press freedom.
