The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders (CONYL) has expressed optimism about Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, potentially becoming a unifying figure in the 2027 Lagos State governorship election.
During a press conference held in Owerri, the group’s President General, Goodluck Ibem, highlighted Seyi Tinubu’s leadership attributes and his ability to garner support across party lines, including from the Lagos State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Ibem dismissed criticisms surrounding Seyi Tinubu’s rumored governorship aspirations, describing them as baseless. He underscored the enduring support of Lagosians for President Tinubu and his political legacy, which he believes has greatly influenced Seyi Tinubu’s preparedness for leadership.
“Lagosians have a long history of supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because of his commitment to transformational governance and democratic values,” Ibem stated. He added that this legacy positions Seyi Tinubu as a capable and credible leader for the state.
In response to comments from the Lagos State PDP, which criticized the alleged governorship bid as a “family affair,” Ibem expressed confidence that Seyi Tinubu would gain bipartisan support if he formally declares his candidacy.
“We remind the PDP that Lagosians love and appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Ibem said. “This was evident in 1999 when they overwhelmingly voted for him and his party, the Alliance for Democracy (AD), rejecting the PDP.”
Ibem further pointed out that the PDP has never won a governorship election in Lagos State, even during its control of the federal government. According to him, this reflects Lagosians’ preference for democracy over political imposition.
“Lagosians value true leadership sustained by transformational performance,” he continued. “President Tinubu proved during his tenure that he came into governance to serve the people, not to exploit the state, contrary to the claims of the Lagos PDP.”
The CONYL leader also emphasized that Seyi Tinubu’s potential leadership is rooted in the principles of service and development, values that have characterized the Tinubu legacy in Lagos.
While Seyi Tinubu has not officially announced any political ambitions, speculation about his possible candidacy has stirred conversations within Lagos State’s political landscape. Analysts note that if he chooses to run, his campaign could lean heavily on the Tinubu family’s political influence and history of governance in the state.
The coalition concluded its address by calling on Lagosians to focus on proven leadership qualities rather than partisan criticisms, urging all political stakeholders to prioritize the state’s development. “Leadership is about service and vision,” Ibem remarked, “and we believe Seyi Tinubu has both.”
As Lagos approaches the next election cycle, the possibility of Seyi Tinubu entering the race will undoubtedly remain a topic of significant debate, reflecting broader discussions about the legacy and future of the Tinubu political dynasty.
