Tensions are mounting within the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its powerful Governance Advisory Council (GAC) over the rumoured 2027 governorship ambition of Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
At just 39 years old, Seyi is being championed by several youth and diaspora groups, including the Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders and The Future Platform, as the ideal candidate to succeed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. If he contests and wins, Seyi would become the youngest governor in Lagos history, surpassing Babatunde Fashola, who became governor at age 43.
Despite not formally declaring, insider reports suggest that underground lobbying is already in full swing, sparking internal debate and division among party leaders.
GAC’s Silent Battle
The GAC—founded by Tinubu himself in 1999—is made up of 30 of Lagos’ most influential political figures. It has long played a behind-the-scenes role in deciding who gets what in the state’s political structure. It facilitated the emergence of Fashola, Ambode, and Sanwo-Olu. But now, the potential candidacy of Seyi Tinubu has stirred deep concerns over issues of political dynasty, meritocracy, and zoning fairness.
Some stakeholders believe backing the president’s son could backfire, especially in a politically aware and complex state like Lagos. Critics argue that apart from running Loatsad Promomedia, Seyi lacks experience in public office, raising concerns about his readiness to govern a state with over 20 million residents.
“It would feel like dictatorship, not democracy,” said an APC chieftain from Oshodi-Isolo. “We risk alienating the electorate.”
But Not Everyone Disagrees
Supporters argue that political dynasties are not new, pointing to the Sarakis in Kwara State, the Marcos family in the Philippines, and the Bush family in the U.S. They believe Seyi represents a new generation of digital-savvy leaders who connect with young voters.
“Seyi is a constitutional Nigerian with full political rights. If he’s cleared by the party and backed by the people, why not?” said Laken Agbaje, an APC loyalist from Alimosho.
Sources also revealed that Seyi’s allies are already eyeing key positions in the upcoming Lagos local government elections, a move some see as an early campaign strategy.
Zoning, Equity, and the IBILE Formula
Beyond personality politics, the issue of zoning remains a hot-button topic. Lagos is divided into five administrative zones: Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe (known as IBILE). Since 1999, the governorship has rotated only between Lagos Island and Epe, leaving Ikorodu, Badagry, and Ikeja without representation.
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This imbalance has reignited calls for a power shift. Many party members say it’s high time the seat went to Ikorodu or Badagry for fairness and inclusivity.
Quiet Support for Babajimi Benson
While Seyi Tinubu’s possible bid generates debate, a silent movement is growing behind Hon. Babajimi Benson, who represents Ikorodu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
Party insiders believe Benson’s emergence would address the zoning agitation and bring a fresh but experienced voice to Lagos governance.
Yet, the silence from President Tinubu on his son’s political future continues to leave APC leaders in a bind, with many unsure how to proceed without direction from the top.
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