Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu – A Trans-Generational Leader

In the Nigerian political terrain today, it is common to see former Governors jostle for positions on the Federal Executive Council and National Assembly, most especially the Senate, after their probable one or two terms in office.

This we can deduce is to prevent their sphere of influence from diminishing, and to retain their relevance on the political scene. Many Nigerian Governors from 1999-2007 falls into this category, while others have since gone into political oblivion.

One however remains the most outstanding of all former Governors not only among his contemporaries, but in history. Since he relinquished power in 2007, his profile and influence has only risen with each passing year.

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a political enigma, a colossus and trans-generational leader whose influence cuts across all generations which has witnessed him, and is even set to transcend into the future, decades after us.

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is different things to different people. To some he is a benefactor, to some a father, to some a political leader, to some a mentor, however to me, he is a source of motivation and inspiration.

One distinguishing trait of his from many other politicians is his selflessness, as his willingness to help budding politicians reach their goals and fulfill personal aspirations in the best interest of the people is well documented.

Since 2007 till date, he hasn’t contested any election, yet he remains very relevant in the scheme of things, supporting people not only in Lagos state, but across various states of the nation, and to various positions, be it executive, legislative or otherwise.

He ultimately worked assiduously and tirelessly with other stakeholders across the country to actualize the election of President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015, as well as his re-election in 2019. A proud feat for all of us, who have come to know him.

Asiwaju supported Mr. President’s ambition, stepping down any aspiration himself might have been nursing as a result of the Integrity and Anti-Corruption stance which distinguishes President Muhammadu Buhari, as this was necessary to checkmate the disturbing levels of corruption at that time.

A truly de-tribalized Nigerian, Asiwaju has always displayed his love for people irrespective of their religious or ethnic backgrounds. He is more concerned about your ability, and this is an attribute every politician should not only imitate but also embrace.

The fallout from the recent #EndSARS protests witnessed attacks on Asiwaju and his investments as hoodlums went on rampage. Institutions and organizations which provide employment for Lagosians were razed, yet he remains committed to supporting his people.

Large hearted and magnanimous, Asiwaju still prioritizes the welfare and safety of Lagosians, and has spoken in support of the Youths while also calling for inquiry to ascertain the facts as concerns the Lekki toll gate incidence, on reaching out to Governor Sanwó-Olú.

In addition, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu proposed that revenue from the Lekki tollgate, Lagos State, be donated to confirmed victims of the shooting that occurred during the #EndSARS protests, as well as to other identifiable victims of police brutality in the state.

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a blessing to us, and should be celebrated. Yorùbá’s should particularly be proud to have been been blessed by Elédùmarè with such an amazing son who has grown to become a leader of leaders.

Asiwaju loves our country, and has always made effort to contribute his quota to the growth of Nigeria, as well as to the development of Nigerians anytime he is called upon by those at the corridors of power, offering valuable advices.

Our nation will grow rapidly, if we have more people with a progressive mindset as Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu managing the affairs of Nigerians across all layers and strata of political administration in our country.

• Prince Akínrẹ̀mí Jagaban

MHR, Ìbàdàn North Federal Constituency.