Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, has dismissed rumors of a rift with President Bola Tinubu following a meeting between the two leaders. Sanwo-Olu spoke to journalists on Sunday after he and members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) paid a visit to Tinubu’s residence in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Amid rising speculation regarding tensions between the governor and the president, Sanwo-Olu emphasized that their gathering was merely a “usual festive courtesy visit.” When asked about whether any discord existed between him and Tinubu, he reaffirmed his respect for the president, describing him as both a father figure and a leader.

“Do you see any discord? Can’t you see that you are smiling? I’m smiling. There’s no feud,” Sanwo-Olu remarked, pointing to his amicable demeanor. “There are people who believe that they are more Catholic than the Pope. People are just crying more than the bereaved. We are grateful that he has given us an audience today.”

Recent rumors of a strained relationship surfaced after the impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa from his position as the Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, although he was subsequently reinstated. The situation seemed further exacerbated when Tinubu allegedly snubbed Sanwo-Olu during the inauguration of the completed phase 1, section 1 of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway last Saturday, and Sanwo-Olu was absent at another event where Tinubu flagged off the reconstruction of the deep seaport access road.

In discussing the content of their meeting, Sanwo-Olu noted that Lagos APC stakeholders conveyed to Tinubu that Nigerians acknowledge the positive impacts of his administration. He highlighted improvements in the nation’s economy and questioned the rationale behind planned protests scheduled for June 12 by certain groups.

“What will be the basis of the protest? The economy has made a positive bend. Give this president more time,” the governor concluded, signaling his support for Tinubu’s ongoing efforts.