President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday played host to the State Governor of the Centre of Excellence (Lagos), Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) at his Ikoyi residence, putting to rest weeks of speculation about a possible fallout between the two.
The visit, held in the spirit of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, marked the first public appearance of both leaders together in recent times, following media reports suggesting growing tension within the Lagos chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Governor’s Advisory Council—regarded as the highest political body within the Lagos APC—was led by its chairman, Alhaji Tajudeen Olusi, who welcomed the president back to his political base and led discussions during the closed-door session.
In remarks made during the visit, Alhaji Olusi acknowledged the perception that the president had distanced himself from some figures in Lagos politics, including the governor. He appealed for reconciliation, asking the president to extend a hand of peace to those perceived to have erred.
Responding, President Tinubu was quoted as assuring those present that the matter had been resolved. “It’s all over now. All is forgiven,” he said, according to sources familiar with the discussions.
Speaking to reporters shortly after the meeting, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the visit as cordial and dismissed suggestions of a rift between himself and the president.
“There’s no issue between us,” Sanwo-Olu said. “He’s my leader and my father. Some people are just exaggerating matters that don’t exist.”
The governor also criticized what he described as external attempts to stoke division within the party, insisting that the relationship between the state government and the presidency remains intact.
“Do you see any discord? Can’t you see when you are smiling, I’m smiling? There’s none. He’s my father, he’s my leader. People are just crying more than the bereaved,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said.
The Sunday gathering was widely viewed as a significant gesture aimed at reinforcing party unity in Lagos, particularly as political stakeholders begin early consultations ahead of future elections.
Both men were seen exchanging smiles during the meeting, a gesture many believe signals a renewed commitment to cooperation in the state’s governance and broader party affairs.
The event concluded with prayers and well wishes.
