A long-standing perceived rift between President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been resolved, thanks to the dedicated efforts of several influential figures. Following a series of conversations and interventions, members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) were able to facilitate a truce, which was publicly acknowledged during Sanwo-Olu’s visit to the president’s residence.
Among the most impactful peacemakers were eight prominent personalities, whose relationships with the president played a crucial role in mending the divide:
1. Chief Dipo Eludoyin – A close longtime friend and business ally of the president, Eludoyin commands significant respect. His ability to communicate openly with Tinubu made him a key figure in advocating for forgiveness on behalf of Sanwo-Olu.
2. Mr. Gilbert Chagoury – A billionaire businessman and family confidant of Tinubu, Chagoury has a long history of mutual respect with the president. His influence in the business community contributed positively to the peacemaking efforts.
3. Professor Wole Soyinka – The Nobel Laureate and renowned intellectual, Soyinka has maintained a candid relationship with Tinubu. His recent appeals to the president on behalf of Sanwo-Olu were pivotal in reshaping perceptions and encouraging forgiveness.
4. Mr. Dele Alake – The Minister of Solid Minerals and a consistent advocate for peace, Alake recognized the political implications of the fallout and worked tirelessly to clarify the need for unity, demonstrating loyalty to both the president and the governor.
5. Aremo Olusegun Osoba – A former governor of Ogun State, Osoba’s decades-long relationship with Tinubu allowed him to express concerns about the implications of the discord, advocating for resolution.
6. Chief Bisi Akande – The former governor of Osun State and protem national chairman of the APC, Akande served as a stabilizing force in the political landscape, urging a quick resolution to the tensions in Lagos State.
7. Chief James Ibori – Not widely recognized for his closeness to Tinubu, Ibori, a former Delta State governor, leveraged his unique relationship to voice his concerns and promote healing.
8. Babatunde Fashola – Former Lagos State governor and a significant figure in Tinubu’s political family, Fashola’s involvement underscored the importance of loyalty and cooperation in resolving the dispute.
These influential figures intervened at various times, advocating for peace even when tensions were high following public snubs during events. Their persistent efforts culminated in a meeting where Tinubu expressed forgiveness, stating, “It’s all over now. All is forgiven,” signaling a return to unity in the APC and restoring harmony within Lagos State.
In the aftermath, Sanwo-Olu publicly expressed gratitude for the president’s audience, dismissing claims of discord and emphasizing their mutual respect and support. The collective actions of these peacemakers not only paved the way for reconciliation but also reinforced the integrity of the GAC, highlighting its essential role in navigating political tensions within the state.