By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Bola Tinubu and Babajide Sanwo-Olu |
A high-profile infrastructure event in Lagos took an unexpected turn on Thursday as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was notably absent during President Bola Tinubu’s flag-off of the reconstruction of the Deep Seaport Access Road in Epe.
The governor’s empty seat, marked with his name, drew attention as his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, stood in for him. The Lagos State government has yet to explain Sanwo-Olu’s absence, fueling speculation about a growing rift between the governor and the president.
This comes just days after President Tinubu appeared to ignore Sanwo-Olu during the inauguration of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway last Saturday. Eyewitnesses noted that the president did not acknowledge the governor, sparking rumors of strained relations.
Political insiders suggest the tension may be linked to the controversial impeachment and reinstatement of Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. Obasa was ousted in February over alleged financial misconduct but was mysteriously reinstated 49 days later reportedly after Tinubu’s intervention.
During Thursday’s event, President Tinubu addressed his remarks directly to Deputy Governor Hamzat, bypassing any mention of Sanwo-Olu. He also issued a veiled warning to state governors, cautioning them against approving unauthorized land developments that encroach on critical infrastructure.
"Governors must be mindful of granting approvals for illegal islands and structures that obstruct road setbacks and waterways," Tinubu said, raising eyebrows over whether the comment was a pointed message.
Social media buzzed with theories, with some suggesting a power struggle between Tinubu, Lagos’s long-time political kingmaker, and Sanwo-Olu, his erstwhile ally. Others dismissed the speculation, arguing that the governor’s absence could be due to official engagements.
As Lagosians await an official explanation, the conspicuous no-show adds another layer to the unfolding political drama in Nigeria’s economic hub. Will Sanwo-Olu address the rumors, or will silence speak louder?