Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has dismissed any rift with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing speculation in the media as baseless and misleading.
Dismissing the notion of rift between the President and him, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the President as a father and a leader.
Sanwo-Olu dispelled the insinuations after he paid sallah homage to President Tinubu at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos State.
Long-standing practice
The Lagos Governor who was accompanied to the President’s residence with the Governors Advisory Council (GAC) further clarified that the Ikoyi meeting was a traditional courtesy visit by the GAC, as well as a long-standing practice during festive periods.
“Do you see any discord? Can’t you see when you are smiling, I’m smiling? There’s none (feud). He’s my father, he’s my leader.”
“It’s our usual. You know, festive period Council visits and a time for Mr. President to meet with his brothers, leaders of our party It’s something that they always look forward to.”
The Advisory Council, is a political body within the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The GAC is widely recognized as the apex decision-making organ of the APC in Lagos with significant influence over governance in the State.
The governor emphasised that the visit was also an opportunity to pray with the President, offer well wishes and continued support, while acknowledging the impact of President Tinubu’s leadership over the past two years.
Federal interventions
Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted key achievements attributed to the President’s support, including the unveiling of new Blue Line trains in Lagos, supported by federal interventions, and a reduction in fuel and food prices.
He also addressed the upcoming June 12 protests being planned by some groups, describing the move as baseless.
“What will be the basis of the protest? The economy has made a positive bend. Give this President more time.”
He concluded by reaffirming his loyalty and that of the GAC to the President and the All Progressives Congress party, stressing their commitment to a united front ahead of the local government elections.
Lateefah Ibrahim