The Lagos State Government has refuted claims of a strained relationship between Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and President Bola Tinubu, describing such reports as unfounded speculation.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, dismissed suggestions of tension between the two leaders, emphasizing a longstanding and respectful relationship.
“How will a father say there is no future in his home?” Omotoso said. “The President is a father to Mr Sanwo-Olu. Much of what people are saying is purely speculative and imagined.”
He added that there has been no indication from the President suggesting dissatisfaction with the Lagos governor. “If the President were not pleased with Mr Sanwo-Olu, he wouldn’t be visiting the state or asking him to host him to review projects he initiated in the past,” he stated.
Omotoso further argued that no President would willingly visit a state where there is discord with the sitting governor, noting that Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief, retains the authority to travel anywhere but would not do so under strained circumstances.
Addressing political developments in Lagos ahead of the end of Sanwo-Olu’s second term on May 29, 2027, the commissioner said discussions about succession have not officially begun. He attributed ongoing conversations to speculation fueled by social media.
“That is not even being discussed as far as I am concerned,” he said. “What you see are rumours and assumptions. The issue of succession will be addressed in due course.”
Omotoso also highlighted ongoing governance efforts, including the upcoming presidential visit and major infrastructure projects like the Ojota-Opebi Link Bridge. Defending the reported N279 billion cost of the project, he maintained that quality infrastructure comes at a price.
“Have you seen the bridge?” he asked. “It spans 5.04 kilometres, with about 2.80 kilometres elevated, includes 146 metres of adjoining roads, and features four underpasses. Delivering such a project with all these components naturally requires significant investment.”
