Recent comments by a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Joe Igbokwe, criticizing the suggestion for Seyi Tinubu to join the Lagos governorship race have ignited widespread condemnation across Nigeria.
Igbokwe, in a post on his Facebook page, argued that ruling Lagos was not a “job for the boys,” claiming that the push for Seyi Tinubu’s candidacy was a distraction aimed at undermining President Bola Tinubu.
In response, Comrade Isaac Balami, an APC chieftain and former Deputy Campaign Manager for the Obi/Datti 2023 presidential election, voiced strong opposition to Igbokwe’s stance. Balami expressed his intention to mobilize support across Lagos and other parts of Nigeria to back Seyi Tinubu, whose leadership potential, he believes, could further transform the state.
Balami, a vocal advocate for youth involvement in politics, explained that his support for Seyi Tinubu stems not only from his youth but also from his own personal experiences as a young, ambitious individual. He criticized Igbokwe for taking what he called an outdated position, arguing that modern democracies are propelled by the energy and innovative ideas of young leaders. Balami, formerly the spokesman for the Trade Union Congress, was particularly shocked by Igbokwe’s comments, stating that he had expected better support for Nigerian youth from Igbokwe, who had benefited from early political opportunities himself.
In his remarks, Balami reminded Igbokwe of the history of young leaders in Nigeria and worldwide, noting figures like Yakubu Gowon, who became Nigeria’s head of state at 32, and Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, who led Biafra at 33. He also pointed to global examples, including French President Emmanuel Macron, who assumed office at 39. Balami emphasized that such leaders had achieved great things early in their careers and that Seyi Tinubu, who will be 42 in 2027, could effectively govern Lagos, a state with a GDP of $87 billion, comparable to the economic scale of nations.
Balami further criticized the ongoing campaign against Seyi Tinubu’s age, calling it a violation of his fundamental human rights, particularly as he meets the legal age requirements to run for office. He expressed dismay that Igbokwe, who had benefited from similar opportunities, would now oppose the idea of a young leader like Seyi Tinubu.
Should Seyi Tinubu choose to run, Balami and his supporters are ready to rally behind him. They are determined to challenge the notion that the Lagos governorship seat is reserved for older candidates, arguing that it is time for a new generation of leaders. Balami praised Seyi Tinubu not only for his leadership experience in the private sector but also for his work empowering young people through his foundation. He concluded by stating that it is time for younger leaders to step up and drive innovation, urging that the political landscape in Lagos and Nigeria should be shaped by the next generation rather than older leaders.
“There is no doubt that young people are taking over economically and politically. Historically, good governance is associated with young people who are in leadership positions. This is a fact Igbokwe knows and should defend because he started benefitting from politics very early in life.
“It was Lagos that reshaped his growth politically. This didn’t start at his current age. The opportunity created for Igbokwe helped him to have a say in Lagos politics. This is why he should leave Seyi Tinubu alone henceforth.
“How old was Yakubu Gowon when he became the nation’s head of state? At the age of 32, his achievements were unmatched. Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu led Biafra at 33. Obafemi Awolowo emerged Premier of Western Nigeria only at 37. Peter Obi was handed the mantle as early as 46. Donald Duke did not do badly when he was Cross River State Governor. He was only 37.
“Our interest in Seyi Tinubu is not only because he is a young man with the energy to deliver good governance to Lagosians, it is also because of the leadership he has provided in his capacity as Chief Executive Officers of different companies.
“Empowering young people through his foundation and lifting dashed hopes amid tough times show he is a man in touch with the reality of the ordinary people. I believe that Lagos and Nigeria are for the boys and not for the men. The men have done their best and should now step aside for innovative youths.”