A former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in South Africa, Mr. Bola Babarinde, has expressed satisfaction over the reconciliation between President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, describing it as a significant relief.
Babarinde shared his views in a statement issued to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lagos.
The reconciliation came after President Tinubu reportedly declared during a private meeting with members of the Lagos State Governor’s Advisory Council on Saturday that he had put past differences with Sanwo-Olu behind him.
Reacting to the development, Babarinde, who also serves as General Secretary of Renewed Hope Global, said the mended relationship represents a source of encouragement for party members and supporters alike.
He noted that the earlier reports of tension between the two leaders had sparked widespread concern, particularly with what he described as troubling criticism and unfair calls for sanctions against “an innocent ally.”
“The recent reconciliation between President Tinubu and Governor Sanwo-Olu is indeed a great relief. It signals hope not just for Lagos, but for the entire Yoruba region and the country at large,” he said.
Babarinde further emphasized that harmony in Lagos contributes to national stability, commending Tinubu for demonstrating leadership through forgiveness and political maturity.
“President Tinubu, the Asiwaju of Yorubaland, has once again shown wisdom. Reuniting with a loyal and dedicated leader like Sanwo-Olu, who played a key role in the 2023 elections despite unexpected setbacks in Lagos, will only strengthen the party,” he added.
He also spoke highly of Governor Sanwo-Olu, describing him as a humble and principled leader whom he has known personally as a schoolmate and friend.
According to him, any perceived missteps on the part of the governor were likely unintended or exaggerated by political detractors.
Babarinde revealed that while he had supported Sanwo-Olu from abroad for years, he eventually returned to Nigeria at the governor’s invitation to contribute to development efforts, albeit unofficially.
He expressed hope that the renewed understanding between key political actors in Lagos would foster better governance, peace, and continued economic growth.
“We pray for sustained cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government in Lagos. May the state continue to maintain its position as Nigeria’s economic hub and a symbol of pride for the African continent,” he said.
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