Tinubu Breaks Silence on Rift With Sanwo-Olu, Declares “All is Forgiven”
Tinubu-Sanwo-Olu relationship
LAGOS — In a move that aims to quell weeks of speculation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has publicly declared that his relationship with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains cordial. The president made this known during the Sallah homage visit paid to him by top Lagos political leaders and members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) at his Ikoyi residence.
Tinubu, who has faced widespread media scrutiny over a perceived cold war with Sanwo-Olu, firmly stated, “It’s all over now. All is forgiven.”
Social Media Sparks Rumours of Fallout
Tension between Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu became a subject of intense public discourse following a viral video from May. During the inauguration of Phase 1 of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, President Tinubu was seen bypassing Sanwo-Olu while greeting other dignitaries, including Governors Babagana Zulum (Borno), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), and Bassey Otu (Cross River).
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The president’s perceived snub of the Lagos governor ignited widespread speculation online about a rift between the two key political figures in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Sallah Homage: Tinubu Dispels Misunderstanding
However, during the Eid-el-Kabir homage on Sunday, the atmosphere was markedly different. The President warmly received Governor Sanwo-Olu alongside Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and several high-ranking APC leaders.
The meeting was led by GAC Chairman Prince Tajudeen Olusi and included Lagos Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Chief of Staff to the President Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, APC Lagos Chairman Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, Senator Tokunbo Abiru, Senator Ganiyu Solomon, and Cardinal James Odunmbaku, among others.
Olusi acknowledged the president’s perceived displeasure and pleaded for forgiveness on behalf of Sanwo-Olu and other Lagos leaders. According to insiders, the delegation, including the governor, reportedly prostrated in a gesture of remorse and reconciliation.
While President Tinubu did not delve into specifics about the fallout, his statement was brief yet conclusive: “It’s all over now. All is forgiven.”
Sanwo-Olu: We’re Here to Wish Him Well
Speaking after the meeting, Sanwo-Olu clarified that the visit was part of the APC tradition to celebrate festive seasons with the former Lagos State governor.
“This is something we always look forward to. We came to felicitate with Mr. President, pray with him, and reaffirm our support. Lagosians are behind him,” he said.
The governor also praised the president’s achievements since assuming office, expressing optimism about Nigeria’s future under his leadership.
“We can feel the impact of what he has done in the last two years, and we’re truly excited because he is our father and leader.”
Ooni of Ife Backs Tinubu’s Security Reforms
In a related development, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, also visited the President in Lagos to extend Salah greetings and commend his administration’s direction.
The revered monarch highlighted international recognition of Tinubu’s policies, sharing insights from a recent trip to Kazakhstan.
“Nigeria is gaining attention globally. With exchange rates stabilizing and policy reforms, foreign investors are beginning to regain interest in our country.”
Speaking on security, the Ooni praised the government’s proposed overhaul of the Forest Guard system, a move he believes will improve safety and boost investor confidence.
“We’re pleased with the restructuring efforts. With enhanced policing in our forests, both in the North and South, the country is taking vital steps toward long-term peace.”
Political Reconciliation: A Strategic Move?
Observers believe Tinubu’s public reconciliation with Sanwo-Olu may be a strategic move to maintain unity in Lagos, a crucial base for the APC. As internal dynamics continue to shape the party’s trajectory toward 2027, mending fences with powerful regional players is seen as essential for stability.
Though the president’s statement was succinct, its political weight is considerable. For a relationship that once seemed frayed in the public eye, Tinubu’s affirmation that “all is forgiven” signals a renewed chapter in the Tinubu-Sanwo-Olu relationship.
