"SHUT UP!": Reuben Abati Slams Babachir Lawal’s Live TV Outburst, Warns of Consequences if Repeated on Arise TV [VIDEO]

 

A recent on-air confrontation involving former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has sparked widespread criticism and reignited conversations around decorum in political discourse. The incident occurred during a live broadcast on TVC News, where Lawal, appearing as a guest, ordered a presenter to "shut up" when questioned about his position regarding the 2023 and 2019 general elections.

This display of aggression did not sit well with many Nigerians, including seasoned journalist and former presidential spokesperson, Reuben Abati. On a subsequent episode of Arise News’ morning program, Abati and his colleagues reacted strongly to the incident, condemning Lawal’s conduct and warning that such behavior would not be tolerated in their studio.

Abati’s words were anything but restrained. He issued a bold challenge, stating, “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.” The statement drew mixed reactions across social media, with many praising Abati for standing up for journalistic integrity and others criticizing the use of confrontational language.

Lawal’s original appearance on TVC took a sour turn when he became visibly agitated by questions about his political stance and previous criticisms of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Rather than provide a calm and reasoned response, he snapped, cutting off the interviewer with a blunt and disrespectful command to “shut up” before launching into his monologue.

Observers have described the former SGF’s demeanor as arrogant and unbecoming of a public figure who once held a highly sensitive position in government. The backlash has been swift. Many Nigerians took to social media to express their disappointment and disapproval of Lawal’s actions, calling them an affront to civility and press freedom.

A user, @yomisrael, remarked, “Bachir Lawal, the grass cutter. It’s a shame and I can’t imagine how he treats people working under him.” The reference to “grass cutter” echoes past allegations that Lawal was involved in a scandal related to the misappropriation of funds meant for cutting grass in conflict-ridden northeastern Nigeria during his tenure.

Another social media commentator, @michael._u, said, “Reuben wey carry respect for head? Even if e go lead to fight, he no go gree accept that kind talk,” highlighting Abati’s reputation for demanding respect in public engagements.

Commentator @adelakuntufayl offered a more philosophical take, stating, “What do you expect from them? A good number of them gets carried away by the ephemeral of the office.” This sentiment was echoed by @dona.ld4010 who flatly described Lawal as “extremely uncouth.”

The conversation surrounding the incident also touches on broader issues of how politicians engage with the media and the public. The expectation that public officials should exhibit decorum, humility, and a willingness to answer tough questions seems to have been brushed aside in this case.

Political analysts argue that such episodes reveal deeper flaws in the relationship between media practitioners and political elites. A free press, they argue, cannot thrive in an environment where journalists are disrespected or intimidated during their duties. The attack on a TV presenter during a live broadcast raises questions about how far political figures are willing to go to avoid accountability.

Meanwhile, Arise TV has not indicated whether they plan to extend an invitation to Babachir Lawal, but Abati’s comments make it clear that if such a visit ever occurs, it will not be a friendly one. His strong language, while controversial, is being seen by many as a defense of press freedom and a call to restore professionalism in political discourse.

The debate continues online, with many Nigerians reflecting on how far civil discourse has declined and what this means for democracy. Regardless of where one stands, it is evident that Lawal’s remark has opened a new chapter in the ongoing struggle for respect between Nigeria’s press and its political class.

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