“He Is My Father” – Gov Sanwo-Olu Dismisses Rift Rumours with President Tinubu Amid Reconciliation Efforts

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has emphatically dismissed widespread speculation of a rift between himself and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asserting that their relationship remains that of a father and son. This declaration follows days of intense media scrutiny and public conjecture fueled by perceived tensions between the two political figures, culminating in a high-level reconciliation meeting in Lagos.

Rumours of a strained relationship gained significant traction last week when a viral video captured President Tinubu seemingly bypassing Governor Sanwo-Olu during a handshake exchange with other dignitaries at the inauguration of Phase 1 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Expressway. Further fueling the speculation was Sanwo-Olu’s noticeable absence at another presidential engagement – the launch of the reconstructed Lekki Deep Seaport access road – where his designated seat was visibly empty.

Addressing journalists after a closed-door meeting with President Tinubu and members of the influential Lagos State Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) on Sunday, Governor Sanwo-Olu sought to quash the rumours. “There is nothing at all; he is my father, he is my leader, and we’re grateful that he has given us audience today,” Sanwo-Olu stated, adding playfully, “Do you see any discord? Can’t you see when we are smiling, I’m smiling? There are people that believe they are more Catholic than the Pope; they cry more than the bereaved.”

Sources present at the reconciliation meeting, as reported by various media outlets, indicated that the gathering was indeed convened to address the perceived discord. Alhaji Tajudeen Olusi, Chairman of the GAC, reportedly pleaded with President Tinubu to forgive anyone who might have offended him, specifically mentioning Governor Sanwo-Olu. In response, President Tinubu was quoted as saying, “It’s all over now. All is forgiven,” a declaration that reportedly led to Sanwo-Olu and other GAC members prostrating before the President in a gesture of humility and renewed loyalty.

While the exact genesis of the alleged rift remains largely a subject of speculation among political analysts, some theories suggest it might be linked to the recent leadership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly, which saw Speaker Mudashiru Obasa briefly removed before his reinstatement with President Tinubu’s alleged backing. Other unconfirmed reports have also hinted at disagreements over political appointments or even alleged financial contributions to opposition figures during the 2023 elections – claims that have been denied by all parties involved.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, however, maintained that the Sunday meeting was a routine Sallah courtesy visit by the GAC to the President, emphasizing it was a long-standing tradition during festive periods for party leaders to meet with their benefactor. He reiterated his unwavering loyalty and that of the GAC to the President and the All Progressives Congress (APC) party, promising a united front ahead of the upcoming local government elections.

This public show of unity and the Governor’s reaffirmation of a “father-son” relationship are expected to douse the political tensions that have simmered within the Lagos political landscape, signaling a clear message of cohesion within the state’s ruling party structure.