The recent remarks by Joe Igbokwe, a prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, condemning the endorsement of Seyi Tinubu as a potential candidate for Lagos State governor have ignited widespread criticism across Nigeria.
Igbokwe, in a Facebook post, dismissed the idea of Seyi Tinubu taking the reins of Lagos, arguing that governing the state is not a role for “the boys” and accusing the endorsement campaign of being a distraction aimed at undermining President Bola Tinubu. He stated, “We aren’t just a band of blind musicians; we have journalists, teachers, and computer experts…”
The comments have since attracted various reactions, with one of the most vocal coming from Comrade Isaac Balami, an APC chieftain and former Deputy Campaign Manager for the Obi/Datti 2023 presidential campaign. In a statement issued recently, Balami expressed his strong support for Seyi Tinubu, citing his belief in the young man’s potential to further develop Lagos. Balami said, “If Seyi Tinubu agrees to run for the next governorship election, I will mobilize my army of youth supporters to back him. As a young man, I have experienced the challenges of being ambitious, but now is the time to shift away from gerontocracy for the benefit of Lagosians.”
Balami, while expressing respect for Igbokwe as a known youth advocate, described the latter’s stance on the issue as outdated and out of step with modern democratic principles. “Good political actors should support what they believe in. I thought Igbokwe, who has always championed the cause of Nigerian youth, would stand with us on this matter. The future of this great country lies in the hands of young, innovative leaders, and it is contradictory to oppose this vision,” Balami continued.
The former spokesman for the Trade Union Congress (TUC) also reminded Igbokwe of the significant historical contributions made by young leaders. He cited examples such as Yakubu Gowon, who became Nigeria’s head of state at 32, and other notable figures like Obafemi Awolowo and Emmanuel Macron, who achieved leadership roles in their countries at relatively young ages.
Balami further questioned the fairness of using age as a barrier to leadership in Lagos State. “If age alone is a reason to oppose Seyi Tinubu, we must also examine the principles of merit and competence in leadership selection, regardless of age, gender, or tribe,” he stated.
Balami and his supporters are committed to rallying behind Seyi Tinubu, should he accept the endorsement and pursue a run for governor. He emphasized that their interest in Seyi Tinubu goes beyond his youth; it also stems from his leadership experience as a Chief Executive Officer and his philanthropic efforts to empower young people and address the challenges of ordinary citizens.
“The time has come for innovative youth to take charge of governance in Lagos and Nigeria,” Balami concluded, signaling his group’s readiness to support Seyi Tinubu’s political ambitions.
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