PBAT is like that one friend who always manages to be in the spotlight, whether you like it or not. He’s the guy who shows up to your birthday party uninvited, brings his own cake, and somehow ends up being the life of the party – while you’re just trying to figure out how to cut your cake. His relationships with his younger allies, including Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Akinwunmi Ambode, Babatunde Fashola, and Rauf Aregbesola, resemble a political soap opera filled with drama, power plays, and plot twists that would make even the best writers envious.
First off, let’s talk about his charisma. Tinubu has a magnetic personality that could probably attract a crowd at a funeral. Just look at how he backed Sanwo-Olu in the 2019 gubernatorial race. It was like he waved a magic wand, and suddenly everyone was cheering for Sanwo-Olu like he was the latest pop star. You can almost hear Tinubu whispering, “You’re going to be great, kid!” while simultaneously keeping an eye on the nearest exit, just in case things go south.
Then there’s the whole pragmatism thing. Remember when Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu had a bit of a falling out? It was like a classic sitcom misunderstanding – “Oh, you forgot my birthday? No worries, I forgive you!” He decided to make peace and even praised Sanwo-Olu’s efforts. Talk about a masterclass in political back-patting! It’s like he knows that a happy ally is a loyal ally, and he’s not above playing the role of the wise old sage, ready to dispense forgiveness like a benevolent wizard.
Now, let’s get into the strategic thinking side of things. Tinubu has the uncanny ability to pick allies who he thinks will be obedient, but when Ambode decided he wanted to go rogue, it was like watching a soap opera villain suddenly turn hero. Tinubu quickly switched his allegiance to Sanwo-Olu, proving that in politics, loyalty is just a fancy word for “as long as you do what I say.”
But don’t forget resilience! Tinubu and Fashola’s public feud was the political equivalent of a messy breakup. You can imagine them at a party, avoiding each other like exes who can’t stand the sight of one another. Yet, despite the drama, Tinubu bounces back like a rubber ball, still walking around like he owns the place. It’s as if he’s saying, “You can’t get rid of me that easily, my friend!”
And let’s not overlook his need for influence and control. Tinubu is like that kid in school who always has to be the team captain, whether he actually knows how to play the game or not. His relationship with Aregbesola is a testament to this desire—two friends turned frenemies, constantly jostling for the top spot. It’s like a never-ending game of musical chairs, where the music just won’t stop!
Forgiveness? Oh, he’s got that down to an art! Just ask Sanwo-Olu, who received a “Get Out of Jail Free” card after their spat. It’s like Tinubu has a stash of forgiveness coupons he’s ready to hand out when the drama gets too thick. “You messed up? No problem! Here’s a coupon for a free ‘I’m sorry’—just don’t make it a habit!”
Ambition? You bet! Tinubu has more ambition than a kid with a lemonade stand during a heatwave. He helped Ambode rise to power, but when Ambode wanted to spread his wings, it was game over. “Sorry, buddy, but I can’t have you flying too close to the sun. I need to keep my throne!”
And let’s wrap it up with adaptability. Tinubu’s ability to change strategies is akin to a chameleon at a paint store. He’s constantly adjusting to the political landscape, ensuring that he’s always one step ahead. When his relationship with Fashola soured, he didn’t sulk in a corner—he adapted and found new allies, proving that in politics, if at first you don’t succeed, just change the game!
So there you have it: Tinubu’s journey through the wild world of Nigerian politics is a comedic masterpiece filled with larger-than-life characters, twisty plots, and enough drama to keep us all entertained. As he continues to navigate the political waters, we can only wonder what his next move will be—because with Tinubu, you never know when the next episode is going to drop!