In the complex world of Nigerian politics, where allegiances shift and relationships evolve, few stories illustrate the volatility of political friendships better than the falling out between former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Once viewed as one of Tinubu’s most loyal protégés, Aregbesola rose through the political ranks under the mentorship of the former Lagos State Governor. Their relationship was built not just on mutual respect, but on a shared vision of political dominance in the South-West, especially under the umbrella of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Tinubu was instrumental in Aregbesola’s emergence as Osun State governor in 2010, and later as Minister of Interior under President Muhammadu Buhari. For years, Aregbesola stood solidly behind Tinubu, defending his policies and supporting his broader political ambitions.
However, cracks in the relationship began to surface in the buildup to the 2022 Osun State gubernatorial election. Aregbesola, who had completed his two terms as governor, felt increasingly sidelined in the affairs of the state, particularly in the choice of his successor. While Tinubu supported the reelection of Governor Gboyega Oyetola who was Aregbesola’s former Chief of Staff, Aregbesola openly opposed him, throwing his weight behind an alternative candidate under a different APC faction. This open rebellion marked a significant turning point and publicly exposed the rift between mentor and mentee.
Since then, Aregbesola’s political moves have become even more conspicuous. Rather than mending fences with Tinubu, he has seemingly doubled down, aligning himself directly or indirectly with politicians and factions not only opposed to Tinubu’s influence in the South-West but also critical of his presidency.
His recent defection to the ADC alongside other opposition figures and public critics of the Tinubu administration has glaringly shown that he is now part of a broader effort to weaken Tinubu’s hold on power.
That said, it is essential to view this development with a measure of balance. Politics is often driven by ambition, ego, and strategic calculations. Aregbesola may see his recent defection to the ADC as a necessary repositioning in a political environment where yesterday’s ally can become today’s competitor. To many observers, his actions may feel like a betrayal of the loyalty and goodwill he once enjoyed under Tinubu’s tutelage. But to Aregbesola and his supporters, it might simply be a matter of principle or survival.
Ultimately, the fallout between Tinubu and Aregbesola reflects a broader challenge within Nigerian politics: the fragility of political loyalty and the ease with which personal interests can fracture long-standing alliances. As the 2027 elections approach and political realignments continue, the Tinubu-Aregbesola saga is a reminder that in politics, friendship is often temporary, but ambition is eternal.
ADVERTISEMENT
We hope to read more comprehensive story about the rift , but I believe its coming.
ReplyDelete