The Lagos chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its top decision-making body, the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), are facing growing internal unrest over speculation that President Bola Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, may contest the state’s governorship election in 2027.
At 39 years old, Seyi Tinubu has become a subject of political discussions following endorsements from several youth groups and Nigerian communities in the diaspora. The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders and The Future Platform are among those rooting for him, citing his appeal among young people and his exposure to global political environments.
Although he has yet to declare interest officially, party insiders say moves are already being made behind the scenes. Reports indicate that loyalists linked to Seyi are quietly mobilizing support and preparing to contest key positions in the upcoming local government elections. This is seen as part of a broader strategy to establish influence within the party ahead of the 2027 election.
If he enters the race and wins, Seyi would become the youngest governor in Lagos history, surpassing Babatunde Fashola who was 43 when elected in 2007. However, this potential milestone has not been met with enthusiasm in all quarters. Many within the APC are unsettled by the idea, arguing it could portray the party as favouring a political dynasty.
A senior APC member from Oshodi-Isolo described the situation as “political arrogance,” suggesting that the president’s son running for governor while his father is seeking re-election could alienate voters. “It would feel like dictatorship, not democracy. We risk alienating the electorate,” the source stated.
Meanwhile, others are defending Seyi’s right to contest. Laken Agbaje, an APC chieftain from Alimosho, compared the situation to other countries and political families, including the Marcos family in the Philippines and the Sarakis in Nigeria. “Seyi is a constitutional Nigerian with political rights. If the people want him and the party clears him, why not?” he said.
Despite his growing profile, critics point out that Seyi Tinubu has no record of public office or political leadership. His most prominent role to date is as CEO of Loatsad Promomedia, an outdoor advertising company. With Lagos being Nigeria’s most economically advanced and populous state, some stakeholders argue that governing it requires more than popularity and youthfulness.
Adding to the tension is the zoning debate. Lagos State operates under the IBILE framework—Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe. Since 1999, the governorship has rotated mostly between Lagos Island and Epe. Some party members now argue that it’s time for other districts like Ikorodu or Badagry to have a chance.
This sentiment has reportedly sparked interest in Babajimi Benson, the federal lawmaker representing Ikorodu. A faction within the APC is said to be quietly supporting him as a more regionally balanced and politically experienced alternative.
At a recent meeting in Epe, discussions about Seyi Tinubu’s potential candidacy were briefly raised but not pursued, reportedly because he has not yet informed party elders of his intentions. However, the silence from both Seyi and President Tinubu has only deepened uncertainty within party ranks.
“The GAC and APC stakeholders are increasingly worried over Tinubu’s silence on the growing calls for his son’s governorship bid,” said a top APC insider. “The lack of clarity is creating a sense of uncertainty within the party and many of us are unsure how to proceed without guidance from the president himself.”
