Sanwo-Olu breaks silence on alleged rift with Tinubu

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has addressed mounting speculation over a rumored fallout with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, calling the reports “baseless” and reaffirming his unwavering loyalty and alignment with the president’s vision.

Sanwo-Olu spoke to journalists on shortly after attending a high-level closed-door meeting with President Tinubu at his private residence in Ikoyi, Lagos.

He was joined by members of the influential Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC), the apex political decision-making body within the Lagos chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“There is no discord between myself and Mr. President. We speak often, we align on vision, and I remain deeply committed to the progressive ideals we’ve always championed together,” the governor stated.

The rumors, which had gained traction across social media and some political circles, suggested a quiet estrangement stemming from alleged disagreements over federal appointments and policy directions. However, Sanwo-Olu dismissed these claims as political mischief aimed at distracting his administration from its core responsibilities.

“People often confuse silence with conflict. In governance, especially at this level, maturity demands that not every conversation is played out in public,” he said.

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Sources within the Lagos State Government House also confirmed that Sanwo-Olu and Tinubu met privately earlier this month, further quashing talks of a fallout.

Political analysts note that the speculation may stem from recent shifts in Tinubu’s political network, particularly as the presidency broadens its national coalition. But many insist that Lagos remains the president’s stronghold, and Sanwo-Olu — who won a second term with Tinubu’s full backing — is still considered a key ally.

The governor used the opportunity to reiterate his focus on delivering the “Greater Lagos” agenda, including major infrastructure projects like the Red Line rail, affordable housing schemes, and tech-driven urban renewal.

“Let’s not be distracted by gossip. What matters is results, and Lagosians will continue to see progress,” Sanwo-Olu concluded.

Observers say the governor’s public statement could finally put to rest the whispers of a political rift — at least for now — as the Tinubu-Sanwo-Olu alliance remains pivotal to APC’s influence in Nigeria’s most populous state.