Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has debunked rumors of a falling-out with President Bola Tinubu, describing their relationship as one rooted in respect and loyalty.
Speculation of tension surfaced last week following a viral video from the inauguration of the Lagos-Calabar Expressway (Phase 1) where Tinubu appeared to snub Sanwo-Olu in public. The video showed the president walking past the Lagos governor without a handshake, despite Sanwo-Olu bowing in greeting, choosing instead to shake hands with Minister of Works, Dave Umahi.
The clip sparked widespread commentary and speculation, suggesting a possible breakdown in relations between the president and his political protégé.
However, Governor Sanwo-Olu has now set the record straight.
“There is nothing at all; he is my father, he is my leader, and we’re grateful that he has given us audience today,” he told journalists in Lagos.
His statement comes on the heels of a reported peace effort by the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), Lagos State’s highest political decision-making body. Members of the GAC reportedly visited Tinubu to mediate and appeal on behalf of Sanwo-Olu and others who may have drawn the president’s ire.
Tinubu acknowledged during the meeting that he had been unhappy with some individuals, including Sanwo-Olu, but assured the council that the matter was behind them.
GAC Chairman, Alhaji Tajudeen Olusi, confirmed the intervention, stating that the council felt it necessary to address the tension and plead for reconciliation.
Despite the viral moment, the govenor’s remarks signal a public attempt to quell any political discord and reaffirm his loyalty to the president.
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