Lai Mohammed’s Political Evolution - From Buhari’s Frontline Spokesman to Tinubu’s Backroom Loyalist

Lai Mohammed’s Political Evolution - From Buhari’s Frontline Spokesman to Tinubu’s Backroom Loyalist

Alhaji Lai Mohammed’s recent declaration of being “100 percent behind Tinubu’s administration” marks a significant moment in his political trajectory.

Once the visible and vocal face of the All Progressives Congress (APC) under President Muhammadu Buhari, Mohammed has now repositioned himself as a behind-the-scenes supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This shift reflects both the natural evolution of a seasoned politician and the changing dynamics within Nigeria’s ruling party.

During Buhari’s presidency, Mohammed was the quintessential frontline spokesman. As Minister of Information and Culture, he was the government’s chief defender, often at the center of heated national debates. His tenure was defined by relentless advocacy, frequent press briefings, and a combative style that sought to counter opposition narratives. He became a lightning rod for criticism, particularly over his handling of sensitive issues such as the Lekki Tollgate incident, but his visibility ensured that the APC maintained a strong voice in public discourse.

In contrast, Mohammed’s current role under Tinubu is markedly different. He has chosen to operate from the shadows, emphasizing loyalty without the same public prominence. His statement that he now contributes through “back channels” suggests a deliberate retreat from the spotlight, perhaps to allow Tinubu’s administration to craft its own narrative without the overshadowing presence of Buhari-era figures. Yet, his insistence on being fully committed to the government underscores that his influence, though less visible, remains intact.

This transition also highlights the broader generational shift within the APC. Tinubu’s presidency represents a new chapter, one that requires fresh voices and strategies to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges in security and economic development.

Mohammed’s repositioning as a loyal elder statesman reflects an understanding of this reality. By stepping aside from the frontline, he preserves his legacy while still lending weight to the administration’s legitimacy.

The contrast between his roles under Buhari and Tinubu is stark. Under Buhari, Mohammed was the megaphone of government policy, often polarizing but undeniably central. Under Tinubu, he has become a stabilizing figure in the background, signaling unity and continuity without dominating the conversation.

This editorial shift in his political persona illustrates the adaptability required of long-serving politicians in Nigeria’s fluid political landscape.

Lai Mohammed’s journey from Buhari’s outspoken minister to Tinubu’s discreet loyalist is emblematic of the balancing act between visibility and influence. His voice may no longer echo daily in the public square, but his presence remains a reminder that political loyalty can take many forms, sometimes loud and confrontational, other times quiet but steadfast. In both roles, his commitment to the APC and its leadership has been consistent, even as the stage on which he performs has changed.