Bola Babarinde, the former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), South Africa Chapter, has expressed his appreciation for the reconciliatory efforts made by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and his predecessor, Akinwunmi Ambode.
In a statement issued on Monday, Babarinde praised Sanwo-Olu for attending Ambode’s 60th birthday party and commended him for acknowledging Ambode’s commitment to serving Lagos State as both governor and civil servant.
Babarinde considered this gesture to be a significant step towards rebuilding relationships and promoting unity among political leaders and peace-loving Nigerians.
Babarinde highlighted that the strained relationship between Sanwo-Olu and Ambode stemmed from the denial of Ambode’s second term by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2019. However, he praised Sanwo-Olu for demonstrating qualities of forgiveness, togetherness, and love, which he learned from his mentor, President Bola Tinubu.
Babarinde acknowledged that President Tinubu faced numerous challenges and learned valuable lessons on his path to the presidency. Despite facing betrayal, abuse, denigration, unjust accusations, and demonization from both friends and foes, Tinubu remained undeterred and determined to achieve his long-term ambition.
Babarinde acknowledged that Bola Tinubu, the former governor of Lagos State and a prominent political figure, has many disciples. However, he believes that none of them can measure up to 10 percent of Tinubu’s political sagacity, humanitarian posture, forgiveness, and his ability to predict the future.
He specifically mentioned Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as one of Tinubu’s mentees. Sanwo-Olu organized a reception to welcome Tinubu back to Lagos, which served as a reunion for the four governors who have served in Lagos State since 1999.
Babarinde praised Sanwo-Olu for initiating the reconciliation process with his predecessor, Akinwunmi Ambode, by publicly eulogizing him during his 60th birthday celebration. He highlighted Sanwo-Olu’s magnanimity and humility in extending such gestures of reconciliation.