Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has dismissed the relevance and legitimacy of a proposed political coalition aiming to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections, labeling the initiative a “needless distraction” and “a gathering of discontented actors.”
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists and political stakeholders in Lagos, Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Tinubu’s leadership, touting the administration’s reform agenda as bold, visionary, and already yielding measurable results for Nigerians.
“The goal of this coalition is clear—to distract the Commander-in-Chief and obstruct the tangible social and economic progress being achieved. But President Tinubu understands the game and remains focused,” Sanwo-Olu asserted.
The proposed coalition reportedly includes political figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Senate President David Mark, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, and ex-governors Nasir el-Rufai and Rauf Aregbesola. However, the Lagos governor waved off the political force they may represent, saying they pose no real threat to the current administration.
“This coalition is not built on a unifying ideology or a fresh national vision. It is built on grievances and personal ambitions. Nigerians will never go back to Egypt,” he said, metaphorically suggesting that the nation has moved past outdated political models and regressive governance.
Sanwo-Olu defended President Tinubu’s policy directions, citing improved foreign exchange stability, the rollout of a national student loan initiative, tax reforms, and increased subnational revenues following the removal of the fuel subsidy. He also pointed to growing oil production, infrastructure strides, and efforts to improve the national minimum wage as proof of the administration’s achievements.
“President Tinubu is not just a leader, but a nation-builder. His legacy of empowerment and vision continues to drive meaningful change across Nigeria,” he stated.
Responding to a question on whether the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) feels threatened by the emerging opposition alliance, the governor was emphatic: “There is no need for concern. Nigerians are discerning. They recognize real leadership and results when they see them. The record speaks louder than political noise.”
Echoing previous remarks from Tinubu’s aides, Sanwo-Olu described the opposition movement as a coalition of “political desperados” and “internally displaced politicians” who should be ignored for lacking any cohesive strategy or policy framework.
“They offer no new vision, only grievances. Their alliance is rooted in opposition to the President rather than a commitment to Nigeria’s future. Such efforts are bound to collapse under their own contradictions,” he said.
When asked what message he had for President Tinubu amid intensifying political rhetoric, Sanwo-Olu was clear: “Stay the course. Millions of Nigerians understand the complexity of governance and trust in his leadership. They are firmly behind him.”
He urged the public to remain focused, vigilant, and hopeful, warning that distractions, no matter how loud, should not derail the nation’s progress.
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