President Bola Tinubu Explains Why He Withdrew From Senate Race to Support Fashola

President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has recounted a defining political sacrifice he made during a critical election season, revealing how he withdrew his Senate ambition to focus entirely on securing victory for Lagos State in the governorship race. According to the Nigerian leader, the decision was strategic, calculated, and rooted in a broader vision to protect his political structure in Lagos at a time when the federal government was determined to wrest control of the state.

Tinubu explained that he had already obtained and filled the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) nomination form to contest for a seat in the Senate. However, after reflecting on the political landscape, he realized that his governorship candidate, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, would require his full attention and resources to withstand the intense political pressure coming from the presidency at the time.

He stated that then-President Olusegun Obasanjo was resolute in his determination to win Lagos State for the ruling party, creating a tense and highly competitive political atmosphere. Faced with this reality, Tinubu chose to withdraw from the Senate race, prioritizing the larger political objective of retaining Lagos under his party’s control.

Strategic Withdrawal at INEC: How Tinubu Handed the Ticket to Ganiyu Solomon

In a dramatic recount of events, President Tinubu disclosed that he personally traveled to Abuja with Ganiyu Solomon to formalize his withdrawal at the INEC office. He described how he informed Solomon of his decision and handed him the nomination form instead, urging him to contest the Senate seat in his place.
Tinubu revealed that Solomon was initially shocked by the sudden turn of events and questioned the reason behind the move. However, the President emphasized that the sacrifice was necessary to consolidate efforts in Lagos. By stepping aside, Tinubu said he was able to concentrate fully on mobilizing political structures, strengthening alliances, and ensuring the success of the governorship campaign.

The strategy ultimately paid off. Babatunde Fashola emerged victorious in the governorship election, while Ganiyu Solomon also secured his Senate seat. Tinubu highlighted this outcome as proof that unity, discipline, and strategic sacrifice remain key ingredients in winning competitive elections in Nigeria’s complex political environment.

Fashola’s Victory and the Power of Political Sacrifice in Lagos Politics

The victory of Babatunde Fashola marked a significant turning point in Lagos politics and reinforced Tinubu’s influence as a master political strategist. By focusing entirely on the governorship race, Tinubu ensured that Lagos remained under his political ideology despite strong federal opposition at the time.

Political analysts say the episode underscores the importance of long-term planning and collective interest over individual ambition in Nigerian politics. Tinubu’s decision to relinquish a Senate opportunity demonstrated a willingness to prioritize party strength and state stability over personal advancement, a move that reshaped the political trajectory of Lagos State.

Reflecting on the moment, Tinubu emphasized the broader lesson: “We must make sacrifices.” His remarks serve as a reminder that political leadership often demands difficult decisions, strategic withdrawals, and calculated risks. The Lagos governorship victory not only preserved his political base but also laid the foundation for the enduring influence he continues to wield in Nigeria’s national political landscape.