Former Special Assistant on Social Media to President Muhammadu Buhari, Lauretta Onochie, has lent her voice to the ongoing debate over the potential governorship ambition of Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The discussion surrounding Seyi’s eligibility to contest for Lagos State governorship seat in the 2027 election gained traction following the impeachment of former Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, on January 13, 2025.
Many political observers have speculated that Obasa’s removal was orchestrated to clear the way for Seyi Tinubu to succeed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
While supporters of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) see no issue with Seyi’s potential candidacy, critics argue that having a father and son occupy two of Nigeria’s most significant leadership positions could raise questions about fairness and inclusivity in the country’s political system.
Onochie Defends Seyi’s Right To Contest
In a tweet on Wednesday, Onochie dismissed claims that Seyi Tinubu’s potential bid for Lagos State governor would be unconstitutional.
She emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution does not bar individuals from seeking political office based on their familial ties.
“To become a Governor in Nigeria, the law does not exclude those whose parents were governors or Presidents. Let us be guided by the law when we argue about Lagos State succession. We cannot have a set of laws for Nigeria and a different set for Lagos,” Onochie stated.
Onochie supported her argument by outlining the legal prerequisites for anyone aspiring to governorship in Nigeria.
The former aide also shared a photo featuring notable political figures, including Lagos State Deputy Governor, Babafemi Hamzat; President Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; former Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa; former Lagos Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode; Senator Tokunbo Abiru; and Seyi Tinubu as potential contenders in the 2027 Lagos governorship race.