Former SGF Babachir Lawal Claims Tinubu Lives on Bananas, Groundnuts and Silk Cigarettes

Ex SGF Babachir Lawal has ignited fresh political discussion after making personal claims about the daily lifestyle of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the Nigerian leader as someone who prefers a simple routine despite holding the country’s highest office. Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), alleged that Tinubu does not particularly enjoy elaborate meals, claiming the president usually begins his day with bananas and groundnuts and has a preference for Silk cigarettes.

The remarks have generated widespread reactions across political circles and social media, where supporters and critics have debated whether such personal descriptions contribute meaningfully to public discourse. While some interpreted the comments as an attempt to portray Tinubu as a leader with modest personal habits, others questioned the relevance of discussing a president’s private lifestyle instead of focusing on governance and public policy.

“Banana, Groundnut and Silk Cigarettes” — Babachir Lawal’s Comments on Tinubu Draw Reactions

Babachir Lawal made the comments while speaking about President Tinubu’s personal habits, asserting that the president has maintained a relatively simple lifestyle over the years. According to him, Tinubu is “not even someone who enjoys food,” alleging that his morning routine typically consists of bananas and groundnuts.
Lawal also claimed that the only indulgence he associates with the president is his preference for Silk cigarettes. The statement immediately attracted public attention, with many Nigerians discussing the remarks on social media and political platforms. However, the Presidency has not publicly commented on the claims, and OGM News NG has not independently verified the personal assertions made by Lawal.

The comments come at a time when President Tinubu remains under intense public scrutiny over economic reforms, governance and national development policies, making virtually every public statement about the president a subject of national conversation.

Babachir Lawal Sparks Controversy With Unusual Description of Tinubu’s Daily Routine

Babachir Lawal’s remarks have highlighted the growing tendency for political discussions in Nigeria to extend beyond policy matters into the personal lives of public office holders. Political observers note that while personal anecdotes can offer insights into a leader’s character, they rarely influence public assessment as much as government performance and policy outcomes.

Supporters of President Tinubu argued that whether the president prefers simple meals or otherwise has little bearing on his constitutional responsibilities. Others viewed Lawal’s comments as an attempt to humanize the president by portraying him as someone with modest personal tastes despite occupying a position of significant influence.

The discussion has also revived broader conversations about the role of personal narratives in politics, especially at a time when Nigerians remain focused on issues such as economic growth, inflation, infrastructure, education and national security. Analysts say public attention is more likely to remain on the administration’s performance than on descriptions of the president’s private routine.
As reactions continue, Babachir Lawal’s comments have added another layer to the public conversation surrounding President Tinubu. Whether viewed as a harmless personal observation or an unnecessary political distraction, the remarks have once again demonstrated how even informal statements about national leaders can quickly dominate public debate. OGM News NG will continue to monitor any official response or further developments.