Tinubu, Aregbesola: 5 Power Players in Sanwo-Olu’s Network

Governor of Lagos, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has a strong network of power players who have helped him rise to the top of his political career. From serving as a Special Advisor on corporate matters to the deputy governor, Femi Pedro, when Bola Ahmed Tinubu was governor, Sanwolu has grown in his political ranks.

The Lagos State governor who is contesting in the forthcoming gubernatorial elections has  Bola Tinubu and Rauf Aregbesola as top players in his network.

Bola Tinubu 

Popularly known as Sanwolu’s godfather,  Tinubu is a political heavyweight in Nigeria that has been critical in ensuring who takes over the leadership of Lagos state. He served as the first democratically elected governor of the commercial capital city from 1999-2007 and has been applauded for some transformative projects in the state.

Tinubu who has been instrumental in the success of many politicians in the nation, including President Muhammadu Buhari has the ability to build and maintain a loyal political base. 

Rauf Aregbesola 

The former governor of Osun State and the current Minister of Interior, Aregbesola is known for his outspokenness and his ability to get things done. He has been a close ally of Tinubu for many years and has played a key role in shaping the political landscape of Lagos State.

Recently, Aregbesola has rallied support for Sanwolu because he believes it would be wrong to allow another party to take over the governorship of Lagos. Aregbesola noted that Sanwo-Olu’s win in Saturday’s governorship election will further attract massive developmental support for the  Bola Tinubu presidency to Lagos and Nigeria, in general.

Femi Gbajabiamila 

The Speaker of the House of Representatives is a close ally of Sanwo-Olu and has been instrumental in pushing through legislation that has helped Lagos thrive. Sharing the same birthdate, both politicians have taken turns to openly appreciate themselves, celebrating all their achievements in the Nigerian political space.

Obafemi Hamzat 

The Deputy Governor of Lagos State is a key member of Sanwo-Olu’s team and has been working closely with him to implement policies that benefit the people of Lagos. Sanwolu has described him as a reliable, trustworthy and committed brother, friend, and partner in the ‘Greater Lagos’ agenda. 

Tunji Bello 

Tunji Bello, Commissioner for the environment and water resources is another important member of Sanwo-Olu’s team. He has been celebrated by Sanwolu for his contribution to Lagos and his struggles for the attainment and sustenance of democracy in Nigeria.

Bello who served as Secretary to the state government when Tinubu was governor of Lagos has also been an ally to Tinubu. Tinubu has described him as a brave and forthright activist who ceaselessly fought for the democracy Nigeria has today. 

Babatunde Fashola 

The Minister of Works and Housing is a former governor of Lagos State and a close ally of Tinubu. He has played a key role in shaping the infrastructure of Lagos and continues to be an important player in Sanwo-Olu’s network. Known as one of the favored godsons of Tinubu, Fashola has worked closely with his political brother to see that the good work started in Lagos continues. 

Femi Otedola 

Nigerian billionaire is also one of the power players in Sanwolu’s network. Known as childhood friends, Otedola had in 2018 endorsed Sanwolu’s candidacy. The Nigerian oil magnate has through his investments in key sectors of the economy, like oil and gas, shipping, real estate, banking and energy, among others contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s economy by providing jobs for millions of Nigerians, especially youths in Lagos and different parts of the country. He is also the son of the former governor of Lagos state, Sir Michael Otedola.

Together, these power players have helped Sanwo-Olu maintain his grip on power in Lagos as he continues to push forward with his agenda for the state. As long as they remain united and committed to their cause, there is no doubt that they will continue to shape the political landscape of Lagos for years to come.