Former Ogun State governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, has called on Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing that his election to the presidency is a result of collective efforts from Yoruba leaders.
Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) South-West Zone Assembly meeting held at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos, Osoba underscored the significance of South-West leadership in Tinubu’s rise to national power.
In a viral post on the X platform, regional political figures reflected on their pivotal role in Tinubu’s political journey.
Osoba recounted a decisive moment in 2007, shortly after Tinubu completed his tenure as governor of Lagos State.
“Bola didn’t make himself the President of Nigeria; we did,” Osoba said, referring to a key meeting organized by South-West leaders. “Seventeen years ago, we decided at a luncheon that Bola should transition from Lagos politics to the national stage to represent Yoruba interests at the highest level.”
He also touched on the historical struggles the Yoruba people faced in their quest for national leadership.
Reflecting on past figures, Osoba said, “We worked hard for Chief Obafemi Awolowo and MKO Abiola, but both were denied the presidency, and we lost many in the fight to make this country better. Today, some of us are still alive to see Bola Tinubu’s success.”
Osoba urged Nigerians, particularly the Yoruba community, to accept any perceived shortcomings of Tinubu’s leadership and to trust in his ability to improve.
“Now that Bola Tinubu is president, I plead with all of you to accept his shortcomings. He will do better. After his first four-year term, he will serve another four years as a Yoruba son,” he added.
Osoba reaffirmed the Yoruba leadership’s unwavering support for Tinubu, stating that the South-West Assembly remains confident in his ability to fulfill his promises and serve Nigeria effectively during his tenure.
