The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has vowed to resist any attempts to impose Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu, as the next governor of the state.
The PDP’s stance follows recent endorsements of Seyi Tinubu by various groups as a potential successor to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in 2027.
One such endorsement came from the Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders, which, during a meeting in Owerri, Imo State, on Tuesday, suggested that Seyi could be a viable candidate not just for Lagos but also for Osun or Imo states, where his family is reportedly from.
Another group, Friends of Seyi Tinubu, described him as a visionary leader with a blend of intellect, empathy, and strategic insight.
However, these endorsements have sparked widespread criticism, particularly from the Lagos PDP.
Lagos Will Not Serve Him
Speaking to journalists, the Lagos PDP spokesperson, Hakeem Amode, firmly rejected the idea of Seyi Tinubu running for governor in Lagos. “Lagos will not serve him,” Amode declared. He questioned whether governorship should become an inheritance, stating, “Governorship is not a gift.”
Amode further accused the Tinubu camp of plotting to replicate tactics allegedly used in previous elections in Ondo and Edo states, warning that such attempts would face stiff resistance. He also reminded stakeholders that many Lagosians did not vote for Tinubu in the last presidential election, which he believes signals opposition to any perceived political dynasty.
Opposition from Indigenous Youths
Adding to the dissent, the Coalition of Lagos Indigenous Youths condemned the idea of a Tinubu family member taking over the governorship. They argued that non-indigenes should not govern Lagos State, asserting the need to respect the cultural and political autonomy of Lagosians.
APC Responds
In response, the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) dismissed discussions surrounding the 2027 governorship election as premature.
“It is too early to be discussing the 2027 elections,” said APC spokesperson Seye Oladejo. “We should rally behind the governor and the president now to advance development.”
Similarly, APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe criticized those pushing Seyi Tinubu’s candidacy, calling it a needless distraction. Writing on his Facebook page, Igbokwe remarked, “Who are these faceless people pushing Seyi Tinubu for Lagos Governor? This is a needless distraction. The real target is to bring down President Bola Tinubu. Ruling Lagos is not a job for amateurs.”
Growing Tensions
The debate over Seyi Tinubu’s rumored governorship ambition has highlighted growing tensions between political groups in Lagos. While supporters praise Seyi’s leadership qualities, critics argue that governance should not become a family legacy, insisting on merit and public choice as the basis for leadership.
As the 2027 elections approach, the issue underscores broader concerns about political succession and the role of political dynasties in Nigeria’s democracy.
