“Shut Up!” — Babachir Lawal Sparks Outrage Over Heated TV Outburst

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has come under fire after an explosive outburst during a live appearance on TVC, where he abruptly told a presenter to “shut up.”

The incident occurred during a discussion on electoral integrity and governance comparisons between President Bola Tinubu’s administration and that of former President Muhammadu Buhari, under whom Lawal served.

As the presenter questioned the inconsistency in Lawal’s stance on the two administrations, saying:

“Mr. Lawal, but it’s the same electoral process in 2019 and 2023, and the same administration you served under. I didn’t see quite much difference between then and now.”

A visibly irritated Lawal snapped:

“Give it a break, man. Shut up, shut up.”

Mixed Reactions Online

The viral moment has triggered a frenzy on social media, with Nigerians divided over the former SGF’s conduct.

• Some netizens condemned Lawal’s outburst as disrespectful and unprofessional for a public figure.

• Others argued that the presenter’s question was provocative or biased, and defended Lawal’s emotional response.

Background

Babachir Lawal, who served as SGF under Buhari before being suspended over a corruption scandal in 2017, has in recent months become an outspoken critic of the Tinubu administration, particularly its handling of the 2023 elections and national affairs.

His blunt tone has often made headlines, but this on-air altercation has taken the controversy to a new level.

TVC has yet to release an official statement about the incident at the time of writing.

1. After 15 years on air, I’ve learned that not every heated moment needs a heated response.

When Babachir Lawal told me to “shut up” on live TV, it was a test of composure, not ego.

Some wanted a stronger pushback, others appreciated the restraint. For me, it was about… pic.twitter.com/jYCqB6ZgD4

— Nifemi Oguntoye🇳🇬 (@nifemioguntoye) July 8, 2025