Former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba has called on Nigerians to rally behind President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing that his election is a collective achievement led by Yoruba leadership.
He made the call during the All Progressives Congress (APC) South West Zone Assembly meeting held at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos,
During the meeting, which saw influential political figures from the South West in attendance, Osoba recalled a pivotal decision made in 2007 that helped Tinubu transition from state-level politics to the national stage. He remarked, “Bola did not make himself President; we did.”
Osoba recounted that 17 years ago, South West leaders convened at a luncheon organized by Alhaji Hamsa, their regional leader at the time, where they collectively agreed that Tinubu should advance to national politics to represent Yoruba interests. He pointed out that this move was instrumental in Tinubu's eventual rise to the presidency.
The assembly also reflected on the historical challenges the Yoruba have faced in attaining national leadership. Osoba mentioned the failed presidential bids of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and MKO Abiola, lamenting that their efforts were cut short, often at great personal cost to their supporters. However, he expressed gratitude that some were still alive to witness Tinubu’s success.
Osoba urged the Yoruba community to support Tinubu despite any perceived flaws and expressed confidence in his leadership. He appealed for patience, stating that Tinubu would improve in his role and serve a second term as a Yoruba leader.
In his concluding remarks, Osoba reaffirmed the South West Assembly’s support for Tinubu and their belief in his ability to deliver on his promises during his tenure as Nigeria’s president.