By Ebenezer Mabinuola
In a pivotal meeting on Sunday, June 8, 2025, President Bola Tinubu reconciled with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at his private Ikoyi residence, quelling weeks of speculation about a political rift.
The closed-door session, held just a month before the July 12 local government elections, signals renewed unity within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos.
Present at the meeting were key members of the influential Governors Advisory Council (GAC), including Chairman Tajudeen Olusi, Speaker of the Lagos Assembly Mudashiru Obasa, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and other top political figures. In a dramatic show of loyalty, Sanwo-Olu and GAC members reportedly prostrated before the president in a traditional gesture of apology. Tinubu accepted, saying, “It’s all over now. All is forgiven.”
The president downplayed his involvement in local affairs, urging the GAC to ensure fairness within the party. “I am too busy for council matters. Go ahead and ensure the right thing is done,” he said.
The reconciliation follows persistent rumours of a fallout, reportedly linked to claims that Sanwo-Olu covertly backed Atiku Abubakar during the 2023 elections. Tinubu’s public snubs of the governor and the earlier removal and reinstatement of Speaker Obasa added fuel to the speculation.
Efforts to mend ties involved not just politicians but traditional rulers, including the Ooni of Ife. With tensions eased, Sanwo-Olu affirmed loyalty, calling Tinubu “my father, my leader,” and praising federal reforms.
The outcome reaffirms APC unity and stabilizes Lagos politics ahead of crucial polls.
