Joe Igbokwe, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has sparked nationwide debate following his Facebook post dismissing calls for Seyi Tinubu to contest the Lagos governorship election. Igbokwe, who argued that "ruling Lagos is not a job for the boys," described the suggestion as a distraction aimed at undermining President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
However, Comrade Isaac Balami, a former Deputy Campaign Manager for the Obi/Datti presidential ticket, sharply criticized Igbokwe's stance. Balami has openly declared his support for Seyi Tinubu, lauding his leadership potential and capacity to reposition Lagos State.
Balami noted that modern governance thrives on youthful innovation, arguing that leaders like Seyi Tinubu embody the energy and creativity needed to tackle 21st-century challenges. He stated, “If Seyi Tinubu agrees to run in the next Lagos governorship election, I will mobilize youth supporters across the country to back him. It’s time to dismantle the gerontocratic norms holding our society back.”
Youth Leadership: A Global and Historical Perspective
Balami countered Igbokwe’s position by citing examples of young leaders who made significant strides early in their political careers. He highlighted Yakubu Gowon, who became Nigeria’s Head of State at 32, and global figures like Emmanuel Macron, who assumed the French presidency at 39. He argued that Seyi Tinubu, who will be 42 in 2027, has both the age and professional experience to deliver transformative leadership for Lagos State.
“Good governance has often been associated with young leaders,” Balami added, noting that Igbokwe himself benefitted from early opportunities in Lagos politics. “It is therefore ironic and contradictory for Igbokwe to undermine the potential of younger candidates like Seyi Tinubu.”
The Case for Seyi Tinubu
Balami praised Seyi Tinubu’s track record as a business leader and philanthropist, emphasizing his contributions through youth empowerment initiatives and community-focused programs. According to him, Seyi Tinubu’s work demonstrates a deep understanding of grassroots challenges and solutions.
“Our interest in Seyi Tinubu is not just about his age,” Balami said. “It’s about the leadership he has shown in various capacities, his innovative approach to problem-solving, and his ability to connect with ordinary Lagosians.”
A Call for Inclusivity
Balami expressed concerns over the resistance to younger candidates, framing it as a broader issue of fundamental rights and democratic inclusivity. He urged stakeholders to create a political landscape that allows competent individuals, regardless of age, to vie for leadership positions.
“The Lagos State governorship seat should not be reserved for a specific age bracket,” Balami asserted. “This is about giving capable individuals a fair chance to lead and bring new ideas to the table.”
