The Coalition for the Promotion of Young African Leaders has officially endorsed Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, as the preferred candidate to succeed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as Lagos State governor in 2027.
At a press conference in Lagos, the National President of the Coalition, Oluwasegun Thompson, and its National Secretary, Ayofemi Badmus, praised Seyi Tinubu’s leadership qualities, describing him as the best choice to lead the state. They highlighted his political awareness, innovation, and commitment to social development.
“Having watched carefully the antecedents and positive footprints of Mr. Seyi Tinubu, and his distinctive leadership style, coupled with his pragmatic innovative initiatives and political sagacity, we are left with no iota of doubt of his capacity, capability, and competence to wear the big shoes and be in the saddle as the Executive Governor of Lagos State after the tenure of His Excellency Sanwo-Olu, precisely come 2027,” the coalition stated.
The group cited political theorist Max Weber’s definition of power, emphasizing that Seyi Tinubu possesses the necessary influence and network to take on the leadership of Lagos State. “For any power play, there must be the existence of men who are aware of an action that has to be taken collectively and who are equally ready to ensure that their will prevails,” they explained.
According to the coalition, they are prepared to support Seyi Tinubu’s candidacy despite potential opposition. They stressed their commitment to social engagement and expanding political discourse within the state.
The coalition pointed out Seyi Tinubu’s various contributions to Lagos through philanthropy and youth empowerment. “He possesses the necessary political might and social charisma. He is a man full of empathy and supportive compassion, as demonstrated by several acts of benevolence, practical kindness, and magnanimity,” they said.
One of the key reasons for their endorsement, the group noted, was Seyi’s humanitarian work. “It is impossible to itemize all his projects in a short space of time. However, we must mention his interventions for prison inmates at Ikoyi Correctional Facility and other facilities across Lagos State,” the coalition added.
Beyond prison reform, the coalition highlighted his active support for youth initiatives and employment programs. They noted that, despite being the son of the president, Seyi Tinubu has remained humble and service-oriented. “He is intrinsically humble, God-fearing, articulate, unassuming, a grassroots mobilizer, philanthropist, and accountable leader,” they stated.
The coalition dismissed claims that Seyi Tinubu is merely riding on his father’s political influence, insisting that he has built his own identity. “Seyi must have and bear his own name, not just his father’s. He may be the son of President Tinubu, but that does not mean he cannot carve a niche for himself,” they argued.
They also criticized those opposing his potential candidacy, calling such opposition unfair and baseless. “Compelling him to stick to his father’s identity or stating that because he is the President’s son, he cannot run for governor is unfair, myopic, and lacks merit. If he is constitutionally qualified, then he is,” the coalition emphasized.
The group pointed to his independent financial contributions through the Seyi Tinubu Initiative and Entrepreneurship Innovation, which they claim has raised millions for businesses, empowered youths, and assisted those unjustly incarcerated.
“The programs, projects, and interventions carried out by him run into millions, and they are directly from his hard-earned money, out of a heart of love and sincere benevolence,” the coalition stated.
