A Lagos-based youth group, De Renaissance Patriots Foundation, has strongly criticized recent remarks by Nigeria’s Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, endorsing Seyi Tinubu for the Lagos State governorship race in 2027.
In a fiery statement issued on Tuesday, the group condemned Olawande’s remarks as “careless” and unreflective of the sentiments of Lagos residents.
“The minister’s comments are his personal opinion and do not represent the collective voice of Lagosians across the state’s five divisions: Epe, Lagos Island, Badagry, Ikeja, and Ikorodu,” the group stated.
The controversy stems from Olawande’s public assertion that Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, possesses the qualifications to lead Nigeria’s commercial hub. However, the Patriots insist that Seyi Tinubu lacks the ancestral ties to the state, a prerequisite they argue is essential for leadership in Lagos.
An Outsider in Lagos?
De Renaissance Patriots Foundation categorically stated that Seyi Tinubu is not a native of Lagos, emphasizing that his maternal roots trace back to Osun or Oyo states.
“Mr. Seyi Tinubu cannot lay claim to any of the divisions in Lagos State,” the group declared. “If he’s qualified to run, he should consider Osun or Oyo State where his mother hails from.”
The group’s statement reflects a deep-seated frustration over what they describe as an erosion of Lagos’s political identity and autonomy.
“We have said it countless times: Lagosians can govern themselves. We do not need outsiders, no matter how benevolent, imposed on us,” they asserted.
“We’ll Resist Any Imposition”
In its statement, the Patriots took aim at political elites, accusing them of prioritizing personal interests over the collective good of Lagosians.
“We know some elders have sold us out to the government of the day, and they are equally ready to sell us further,” the group charged.
They warned against attempts to manipulate Lagos’s political landscape, vowing to resist any effort to force Seyi Tinubu into the governorship race.
“Lagos State’s throne is not for the picking anymore,” the statement read. “This time, vibrant youths will resist any attempt to impose Seyi Tinubu on us.”
The group also called on Seyi Tinubu to reject any encouragement to contest, describing such support as deceitful.
“We urge Mr. Seyi Tinubu not to fall for the flattery of those pushing him to contest. Lagos is no longer what it used to be when our fathers could sell the state to the highest bidder,” the Patriots said.
A Broader Debate: Lagos’s Political Identity
The heated exchange underscores a broader debate about Lagos State’s governance and identity. Critics argue that political dynasties and external influences have undermined the autonomy of local leadership.
The Patriots’ statement aligns with growing discontent among youths in Lagos, many of whom are demanding more inclusive and representative governance.
“Lagos State has more than enough competent sons and daughters to stand for the governorship race,” the group emphasized. “Nigeria is not ready for imperial rule or monarchy.”
Political Implications
This clash comes at a critical time as Lagos prepares for the 2027 governorship polls. The state, often seen as a political and economic barometer for Nigeria, is a coveted prize for any party or candidate.
Political analysts believe the controversy surrounding Seyi Tinubu’s potential candidacy could shape the narrative of the elections.
“The statement by the Patriots is significant because it reflects a growing resistance to the concentration of political power in a single family or group,” said political commentator Adeola Fashola. “This resistance could resonate with a younger, more politically aware electorate.”
What Lies Ahead?
As the countdown to 2027 begins, the debate over who is fit to lead Lagos is set to intensify. For now, De Renaissance Patriots Foundation has made its position clear: Lagos’s governorship is not up for grabs by individuals without deep-rooted ties to the state.
“Lagos is not a monarchy,” they concluded. “This is a democracy, and Lagosians will decide who governs them.”
