Farouk Lawan Returns to Constituency, Calls Prison Term a Divine Test

• Former House member Farouk Lawan visited his constituency for the first time since prison, describing his incarceration as a divine test
• Lawan, convicted for accepting a bribe, expressed gratitude to his constituents for their support during his five-year prison sentence

Former House of Representatives member Farouk Lawan has made his first public visit to his Bagwai/Shanono Federal Constituency since completing a five-year prison sentence in October. Lawan described his incarceration as a divine test that imparted valuable life lessons.

Lawan, convicted in 2021 for accepting a $500,000 bribe from oil magnate Femi Otedola during a 2012 fuel subsidy probe, served his sentence in Kuje Prison. His release in October was followed by his visit to Bagwai, where community members and traditional leaders warmly received him.

Sporting the Kwankwasiyya Movement’s signature red cap, Lawan was greeted by Alhaji Nura Shehu Ahmed, the district head of Bagwai.

Ahmed commended Lawan for his continued contributions to the community, even during his incarceration.

Speaking to his constituents, Lawan emphasized that his visit was non-political, intended solely to express gratitude for their support during his ordeal.

Drawing a parallel with the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph), he described his imprisonment as a trial from Allah that would ultimately strengthen him.

During the visit, Lawan also paid condolence visits to several families in Bagwai and Shanono local government areas and stopped at the palace of Alhaji Ibrahim Sani Gaya, the district head of Shanono.

Despite his assertions of staying apolitical, speculation surrounds Lawan’s political future. Saidu Sarkin Ya, a local supporter of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), expressed confidence in Lawan’s electability should he choose to contest, even though a presidential pardon would be required for eligibility.

Sarkin Ya also speculated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) might seek to recruit Lawan, which could shift his political prospects.

In contrast, another resident, Garba Sani Bagwai, argued that Lawan’s supporters would remain loyal regardless of his political affiliation.

Lawan, who lost his seat in 2015 as a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, has sparked curiosity about his current political leanings. During his recent visit, NNPP appointees and supporters were present, further fueling speculation about his alignment.