By John Moses
A former leader of Nigeria’s ruling party in South Africa has hailed the reconciliation between President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, describing the renewed alliance as a welcome development that signals political stability and national unity.
Bola Babarinde, former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) chapter in South Africa and now General Secretary of Renewed Hope Global, issued a statement on Tuesday commending the resolution of tensions between the two political figures.
President Tinubu reportedly declared his forgiveness of Governor Sanwo-Olu during a closed-door meeting with members of the Lagos State Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) in Lagos over the weekend, ending weeks of speculation surrounding a possible fallout.
“The reconciliation brings tremendous relief,” said Babarinde. “It’s not only a win for Lagos but also for the broader Yoruba region and Nigeria. Peace in Lagos equates to national stability.”
Babarinde noted that public discourse around the alleged rift had triggered concern, adding that calls for retribution against the governor were unfounded. He praised Tinubu for demonstrating political maturity and a spirit of forgiveness.
“Asiwaju Tinubu has shown once again that he’s a leader who values loyalty and reconciliation. Sanwo-Olu stood firmly behind him during the 2023 elections, despite unexpected challenges within the state,” he said.
Babarinde, who has known Sanwo-Olu personally as a former schoolmate, expressed confidence in the governor’s integrity and leadership style. “He is humble, forward-thinking, and dedicated. If mistakes were made, they were neither malicious nor intentional.”
Calling for continued cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government in Lagos, Babarinde expressed hope that the state would maintain its position as Nigeria’s economic engine and an example of governance for the continent.
