I have been a close observer of Nigerian politics and public service since the 1970s, a passion ignited during my formative years living with my great uncle, Mr. Olalekan Samuel Fagbemiro—fondly known as “Pento.” A father figure to me, he was generous and visionary, ensuring that his nephews received quality education and moral guidance. He didn’t just provide for us; he taught us how to thrive.
While attending National Primary School in Abule Ijesha, Lagos, I vividly recall his frequent guests—distinguished individuals such as Rear Admiral Adetoye Oyetola Sode, Architect Segun Olubode, the late Mr. Akinmolayan, Engr. Majekodunmi and others. My uncle would proudly ask me to present my school report cards to them. Given my consistent first-place rankings, I was always happy to comply. He took immense pride in our academic excellence.
Later, during the military regime of General Sani Abacha, Rear Admiral Oyetola Toye Sode Rtd. (then a Commodore) was appointed Military Administrator of Oyo State. My uncle was named Commissioner for Finance, and Architect Segun Olubode was assigned to head the Ministry of Works. This brought me closer to the seat of government at Agodi, Ibadan, and deepened my understanding of governance and public service.
Even earlier, as a young boy, I accompanied my uncle to the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) Secretariat on Eletu Odibo Street in Abule Ijesha, where we visited Chief Ebenezer Babatope, the then Director of Research and Publicity of the party. Those visits sparked my enduring interest in politics.
Across the decades—from the era of political icons like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Ahmadu Bello, and Chief M.K.O. Abiola, to more recent leaders like Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Mr. Ebele Goodluck Jonathan and President Muhammadu Buhari—one trend has remained consistent: their children rarely appeared in public political arenas, perhaps due to concerns over their safety or a desire for privacy.
However, in a departure from that tradition, one young man stood out during the 2023 general elections in Nigeria—Mr. Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. He played an active, visible, and commendable role in his father’s campaign. Seyi not only accompanied his father to various rallies but also organized his own, mobilizing Nigerian youths, distributing food supplies, and initiating empowerment programs aimed at voter engagement and political participation.
Seyi Tinubu has since established himself as a significant figure in Nigerian politics—beyond the borders of his native Lagos State. His contributions helped shape the successful outcome of the 2023 elections for the All Progressives Congress (APC), the platform on which his father was elected.
Since the election, he has continued to support his father’s administration wholeheartedly. Yet, rather than being celebrated, Seyi has faced criticism for remaining actively involved in national and international engagements alongside his father. To those detractors, one must ask: Where were you when he was courageously at the forefront of the campaign? He risked much, faced down opposition, and made personal sacrifices. He was the first son of any major presidential candidate to so visibly and effectively participate in a national campaign.
Seyi Tinubu deserves recognition, not condemnation. His commitment to public service and the democratic process is a lesson to political elites who shelter their children abroad, detached from the realities of the Nigerian state. Despite having the means to live a life of comfort overseas, Seyi chose instead to serve and engage with his motherland.
Today, Seyi stands as a symbol of youthful involvement in politics and a beacon for Nigerian youth. His courage and patriotism should be commended. We, at Renewed Hope Global – South Africa Chapter, salute him and wish him continued success. Should he decide to seek elective office in the future, he has already proven that he possesses the passion, resilience, and vision needed to serve Nigeria honourably.
Enough of the campaign of calumny. Seyi Tinubu deserves our support—not just because of who his father is, but because of the values and dedication he himself represents.
Engr, Bola Babarinde was former Chairman, All Progressives Congress South Africa and presently the General Secretary Renewed Hope Global.
