Recent endorsements for Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, as a potential candidate for Lagos State governor in 2027 have sparked widespread debate and opposition across various quarters.
The call for Seyi Tinubu’s candidacy began with the Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders (CONYL) in Owerri, Imo State, where the group cited his philanthropic contributions and selfless acts as evidence of his leadership qualities. Highlighting his support during the Borno State floods, CONYL praised Seyi’s provision of relief materials and financial aid to affected families.
Similarly, the Middle Belt Youths and the Friends of Seyi Tinubu (FOST) joined the call. Describing him as a visionary leader, FOST emphasized Seyi Tinubu’s intellect, empathy, and readiness to advance Lagos State into a future of prosperity and innovation.
However, the endorsements have drawn sharp criticism from several groups and individuals.
Prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) member Joe Igbokwe dismissed the endorsements, calling them a ploy to undermine President Bola Tinubu. He described the campaign as a “needless distraction,” adding, “Ruling Lagos is not the job of boys.”
The Coalition of Lagos Indigenous Youths also strongly rejected the move, labeling it anti-democratic. In their statement, they criticized the endorsement coming from Owerri and emphasized that Lagos deserves leadership by its indigenes.
“For over two decades, Lagos State has been ruled by individuals who are not true sons or daughters of the land. This marginalization has contributed to the state’s underdevelopment,” the group argued. They suggested that Seyi Tinubu should instead consider contesting in his ancestral Osun State or even Imo State if those endorsing him are so confident in his leadership abilities.
The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also voiced its opposition. Spokesperson Hakeem Amode rejected the idea of governance becoming hereditary, stating, “Governorship is not a gift to be passed down. Lagosians will resist any attempt to impose Seyi Tinubu.”
Human rights activist Deji Adeyanju described the endorsements as laughable and an insult to Lagosians. He questioned whether Lagos was being treated as a monarchy where leadership is inherited. “It is an indication of how the political elite underrate the people of Lagos. This only happens because what we call elections are mere selections,” he said.
Adeyanju further urged political stakeholders in Lagos to stand up for democratic values, warning against any attempt to impose a dynastic system of governance in a federal democracy.
As reactions continue to pour in, the debate over Seyi Tinubu’s possible governorship bid highlights broader concerns about political inheritance and the state of democracy in Nigeria.
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