Seyi Tinubu for Lagos 2027: What are they afraid of?

By Idris Jibril

Seyi Tinubu’s story is one of legacy and ambition in Nigeria’s complex political landscape. As the son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Seyi has had a front-row seat to governance and leadership. Growing up, he walked hand-in-hand with his father, learning the intricacies of politics and absorbing the values of service and resilience.

Now, as a man, Seyi is rumored to be eyeing the governorship of Lagos State in 2027. This possible move has set the stage for a dramatic story involving surprising twists, personal attacks, and false accusations as it unfolds. Seyi’s journey will undoubtedly be watched closely by friends and foes alike, given his position as the first son of the first family.

The Nigerian Constitution unequivocally provides the framework for who can aspire to the governorship of a state. Chapter 6, Part 2, Section 177 stipulates that any citizen aspiring for the office must be a Nigerian by birth, have attained the age of 35 years, be a member of a political party, and have been educated up to at least the school certificate level or its equivalent. Seyi Tinubu, a distinguished lawyer with a Master of Laws (LLM) degree, stands tall among these qualifications. His academic achievements underscore his intellectual rigor, a trait essential for steering a complex and dynamic state like Lagos.

Beyond his academic credentials, Seyi Tinubu has etched his name in philanthropy and social impact. As the founder of the Noella Foundation, he has spearheaded initiatives that address youth empowerment, education, and poverty alleviation, etc. His commitment to uplifting marginalized communities resonates with the aspirations of Lagosians, who yearn for an empathetic leader deeply attuned to their challenges. Moreover, his political activism has transcended the boundaries of Lagos, as he has built bridges across Nigeria’s diverse socio-political landscape, fostering unity and understanding among various ethnic and religious groups in the youth demography.

Critics may question the implications of political succession within the Tinubu family, but such skepticism overlooks the constitutional and democratic framework that underpins Nigeria’s governance. Seyi Tinubu, like any other eligible citizen, has the right to aspire to any political office, provided he fulfills the constitutional requirements. His candidacy should be evaluated not through the lens of his family name but on the merit of his competence, and track record.

Lagos, as Africa’s largest city and a hub of commerce, culture, and innovation, its leadership must reflect the complexity and ambition of its people. With its ambitious projects like the Metro Train revitalizing transportation and Eko Atlantic City positioning it as a global player, the state demands leadership to sustain and expand these achievements.

The purported ambition of Seyi Tinubu to run for Lagos governor in 2027 is causing a stir among Lagos politicians. This is largely because Seyi’s potential candidacy is seen as a threat to other aspirants. In the 2023 elections,  Gbadebo Rhode-Vivour and Jide Adediran contested without much fuss, why is Seyi’s ambition giving some people sleepless nights?

Seyi Tinubu is the total package – he meets all the criteria and will be a tough candidate to beat. With his father’s established political network and his own newly formed alliances across various tribes and ethnic groups, his victory is likely to be overwhelming. He’s got the perfect blend of legacy and new connections, making him a formidable contender in the political arena.

Despite his silence on the rumors., Lagos politicians are likely to engage in more strategic maneuvering, attempting to position themselves favorably for the upcoming election. Seyi’s possible entry into the race has already caused a stir, leaving many to speculate about the future of Lagos politics.