2027: Seyi Tinubu endorsed for Lagos state governorship election

Isaac Balami, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Deputy Campaign Manager for the Obi/Datti ticket during the 2023 elections, has criticized party member Joe Igbokwe over his comments regarding Seyi Tinubu’s potential bid for Lagos State governorship.

Plateau News reports that Igbokwe, in a Facebook post, dismissed the idea of Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, running for governor.

He described such calls as a distraction aimed at undermining the president’s leadership.

In response, Balami issued a statement condemning Igbokwe’s stance as outdated and incompatible with modern democratic principles, which are increasingly driven by young and innovative leaders.

He expressed his readiness to mobilize nationwide support for Seyi Tinubu if he decides to contest for Lagos governor, emphasizing the need to break away from gerontocratic traditions.

Balami highlighted his own experiences of being overlooked due to his youth, calling for a shift toward empowering younger leaders. He noted, “If Seyi Tinubu agrees to run in the next Lagos governorship election, I will fully mobilize my youth supporters across the country to back him. This is the time to end gerontocracy for the benefit of Lagosians.”

He added that the rise of young leaders globally and within Nigeria’s history demonstrates the capabilities of youth in governance. Balami pointed out that Igbokwe himself benefitted from opportunities at a young age, shaping his political career in Lagos. He urged Igbokwe to refrain from attacking Seyi Tinubu and instead support the youth-driven progress that modern Lagos needs.

Balami supported his argument by citing notable examples of young leaders who made significant impacts:

  • Yakubu Gowon became Nigeria’s Head of State at 32, achieving remarkable milestones.
  • Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu led Biafra at the age of 33.
  • Obafemi Awolowo became Premier of Western Nigeria at 37.
  • Peter Obi took office as Anambra Governor at 46, and Donald Duke became Cross River Governor at 37.
  • On the global stage, French President Emmanuel Macron assumed office at 39, leading a nation with a GDP of $3.31 trillion.

He contrasted these examples with Lagos State’s GDP of $87 billion, asserting that Seyi Tinubu, who will be 42 in 2027, is well-positioned to govern the state effectively.

Balami concluded by emphasizing the need for young and dynamic leadership to sustain Lagos’ growth and development. He called on APC stakeholders and Lagosians to embrace progress and give capable young leaders like Seyi Tinubu the chance to lead.