By John Umeh
In a symbolic gesture that has captured national attention, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu publicly declared that he has forgiven Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu during a high-profile meeting with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, in Lagos. The encounter, which took place at a private residence in the city, comes after months of behind-the-scenes tension between Tinubu and the Lagos State Government, led by Sanwo-Olu.
Observers say the president’s words, “I forgive you,” directed at Sanwo-Olu in the presence of the highly revered Yoruba monarch, mark a significant political reconciliation within Nigeria’s ruling elite and may reshape political dynamics within Lagos State and beyond.
A Moment of Royal Symbolism and Political Healing
The meeting, which was closed to most members of the press but widely discussed by insiders, was said to be centered around restoring unity among Yoruba leaders. According to sources familiar with the discussions, the Ooni of Ife played a key mediating role, urging both Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu to set aside differences in the interest of peace and Yoruba solidarity.
Dressed in white agbada, Tinubu appeared visibly calm and statesmanlike as he addressed the small gathering. After a moment of reflection, he turned to Sanwo-Olu and said, “We all make mistakes. What matters is that we learn from them. Babajide, I forgive you.”
The words were met with quiet applause, as the Ooni of Ife nodded in solemn approval.
The Rift: Quiet Tensions Turn Public
While the exact nature of the rift between Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu was never fully disclosed, political analysts have long speculated on growing disagreements over political appointments, Lagos governance priorities, and loyalty within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Sanwo-Olu, once considered a loyal protégé of Tinubu, had in recent times been seen as drifting away from Tinubu’s political camp, fueling speculation of strained relations. Sources within the APC say the governor’s handling of key state matters and perceived alignment with emerging political blocs raised concerns in the presidency.
This apparent cold war became a subject of public debate earlier this year, with neither side issuing direct statements—until now.
Ooni of Ife as Mediator of Unity
The Ooni of Ife, a traditional custodian of Yoruba culture and unity, has in recent years taken on a quiet but powerful diplomatic role in resolving political disputes across the Southwest. His presence at the Lagos meeting gave the reconciliation greater moral and cultural weight.
“This is not just about politics,” a palace aide told reporters. “This is about the unity of the Yoruba people and the stability of Nigeria. Kabiyesi came not to take sides but to restore peace.”
The Ooni’s ability to bring the two political titans together is being widely praised as a masterstroke of traditional diplomacy.
A Message of Leadership and Closure
Tinubu’s decision to forgive Sanwo-Olu has been interpreted by many as an act of mature leadership, aimed at closing ranks ahead of critical national decisions and possibly the next political cycle. Analysts say it sends a strong message to other leaders across the nation that reconciliation is possible, even in the face of deep disagreements.
“This is vintage Tinubu—firm, strategic, but ultimately pragmatic,” said political commentator Dr. Tunde Akinola. “Forgiveness in politics, especially when made public, isn’t weakness—it’s control.”
In response to the gesture, Sanwo-Olu was said to have bowed respectfully, expressing appreciation and reaffirming his loyalty to the president and the party. No formal statements have been issued by the governor’s office, but insiders suggest that the atmosphere during and after the meeting was warm and sincere.
Implications for the APC and Yoruba Unity
This reconciliation could have far-reaching implications for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), especially as internal factions and power struggles threaten its cohesion in several states. By mending fences with one of the party’s most important governors, Tinubu may be reinforcing party stability ahead of mid-term political recalibrations.
Moreover, the public nature of the peace gesture may reenergize calls for Yoruba unity, especially amid rising political competition from other regions and minority blocs. Traditional leaders and elders are expected to follow up the meeting with more regional consultations.
President Tinubu’s declaration of forgiveness toward Governor Sanwo-Olu, witnessed by the Ooni of Ife, marks a pivotal moment of healing in Nigerian politics. It highlights the enduring relevance of traditional leadership in modern governance and underscores Tinubu’s political dexterity in managing loyalty, conflict, and power.
As the dust settles, the message to both political allies and opponents is clear: in Tinubu’s politics, there is room for correction—but also, for redemption.
