President Bola Tinubu has publicly affirmed that his relationship with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains cordial, effectively addressing recent rumors of a fallout. Speaking during a Sallah homage visit led by key Lagos political figures at his Ikoyi residence, Tinubu stated, “It’s all over now. All is forgiven.”
This declaration comes after weeks of speculation about a “cold war” between the two, fueled by viral footage from May in which President Tinubu appeared to snub Sanwo-Olu during the inauguration of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. In the clip, Tinubu was seen greeting several dignitaries but seemingly bypassed the Lagos governor, sparking widespread commentary on social media.
Leading the Sallah delegation was Prince Tajudeen Olusi, chairman of the influential Governance Advisory Council (GAC) in Lagos. During the visit, Olusi acknowledged that the president had appeared displeased with Sanwo-Olu and others, and pleaded for reconciliation. Tinubu’s statement appeared to confirm the rift but also signaled a desire to move forward. Also in attendance were Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, APC Lagos Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi, Senators Tokunbo Abiru and Ganiyu Solomon, and Cardinal James Odunmbaku, underscoring the political weight of the meeting.
The president’s conciliatory words may serve to quell internal tensions within Lagos APC circles and reinforce party unity ahead of future political contests.
