Gov. Sanwo-Olu’s absence in Tinubu’s inauguration of Epe-Ijebu Ode raises fear of imminent impeachment
The absence of Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, during President Bola Tinubu’s flag-off of the Epe-Ijebu Ode road project, Thursday, has raised fears that the no love lost between the duo may lead to impeachment of the governor.
His absence has fueled new speculation that their strained relationship is real and potent to trigger off chains of actions.
President Bola Tinubu was in Epe, Lagos State, on Thursday to launch the reconstruction of the deep-seaport access road connecting Epe and Ijebu-Ode.
While the event drew many high-profile guests, including Borno State governor, Babagana Zulum and Lagos state deputy governor Femi Hamzat, Governor Sanwo-Olu, was notably missing.
Sanwo-Olu’s absence drew attention, especially as his seat at the venue was clearly marked. However, it remained empty throughout the ceremony, with Hamzat sitting a row behind where the Lagos governor was meant to be.
During his speech, Tinubu addressed his comments directly to the deputy governor.
He used the opportunity to caution state leaders about giving out unauthorized development permits, especially in areas meant for roads and maritime projects.
“Please, our dear governors, let’s work together. Don’t give planning approvals without collaborating with the surveyor-general of the federation and the ministry of works on these roads,” Tinubu said.
He continued, “I’m glad the deputy governor of Lagos state is here. Take it that we will revoke all those approvals given on setbacks, and please note that we are very serious about it. No more approvals for those unapproved islands being created illegally.”
So far, there has been no official explanation from the Lagos State government about why governor Sanwo-Olu missed the event.
This development follows closely on the heels of another moment last week that raised eyebrows.
During the commissioning of the completed phase one, section one of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway, Tinubu was seen greeting a line of top officials. While he warmly shook hands with several dignitaries—including former Senate President, Ahmed Lawan and governors from Bayelsa, Cross River, and Borno—he appeared to skip over Sanwo-Olu. Instead of greeting him, Tinubu reached past and extended a handshake to Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo, who was next in line.
These recent incidents have stirred speculation that the relationship between Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu is festering. Some observers believe this tension may be linked to the earlier failed attempt to remove Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly whilst others think that impeachment of the governor is in the offing.
