By Adekunle Oluwafunmilayo
In a reflective political commentary on leadership and loyalty within the Lagos State political structure, a commentator has highlighted the enduring influence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing his political journey as one deeply rooted in gratitude, mentorship, and strategic loyalty to benefactors.
According to the reflection, Tinubu once openly acknowledged that his entry into politics was shaped by key mentors, including the father of Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, among others who supported his early political growth. The commentary notes that this acknowledgment of past support has continued to reflect in his political decisions over the years.
It further referenced recent political developments in Lagos, where the Governor’s endorsement and subsequent backing by the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) reportedly strengthened the emergence of the Deputy Governor as the preferred successor in the state’s political succession arrangement. The GAC is widely regarded as a powerful consultative body within Lagos politics, known for shaping major party decisions.
The commentary stressed that once consensus is reached within the GAC, such decisions are often regarded as politically decisive and rarely reversed, underscoring the structure’s influence in the state’s governance system.
Attention was also drawn to the role of respected party elders such as Prince Tajudeen Olusi, whose long-standing presence in Lagos politics was highlighted as an example of quiet influence and simplicity in leadership style. Despite his modest lifestyle, he is widely regarded as a significant figure within the Lagos political establishment.
The narrative described how Lagos politics is often shaped by loyalty, mentorship, and respect for elders, rather than material display or personal wealth. It argued that the political stability of the state is partly rooted in the culture of continuity and gratitude among political actors.
Concluding the reflection, it emphasized that Lagos has maintained a relatively structured and predictable political succession process compared to many other states, attributing this to disciplined party coordination and elite consensus-building within the APC framework.
The commentary ultimately called for a broader lesson in political loyalty and respect for benefactors, noting that sustained political stability is often achieved where gratitude and institutional respect are preserved.
