By Patrick Idowu
Former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has revealed that he was physically paralysed for days after learning of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s death.
Recalling the shock, Mohammed said, “I was paralysed for days when I heard about the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari. When I recovered, I decided to dedicate a whole chapter to him in my book.”
He described Buhari as a supportive leader who trusted his ministers, recalling that during his eight-year tenure, the president asked him for a personal favour only once, to deliver a paper on his behalf at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs.
Mohammed also rejected claims that Buhari was detached from national affairs, asserting that the former president was always informed and in charge, except during periods of illness. “To say he was disconnected is unfair,” he said.
He recounted one of his most challenging periods as minister during the EndSARS protests, when his family faced online and offline attacks.
“My wife and children were bullied. Their businesses were boycotted, and they were unhappy because they felt I brought all this upon them,” he said, noting that a family meeting led to his decision to resign.
He added that the choice was not financially motivated, revealing that his total monthly earnings as minister were N860,000.
Addressing accusations of frequent lying in defence of the government, Mohammed said, “You may not agree with my position, but it is difficult to fault my logic or my facts. Many accuse me simply because I was loyal to the president.”
He described Buhari as “a good leader, mentor, and friend” and explained that his book, Headlines and Soundbites: Media Moments that Defined an Administration, captures critical decisions, crises, and communication battles during Buhari’s tenure.
