Youth Sentiment Clash Ahead of 2027 Over Seyi Tinubu’s Rumoured Governorship Ambition, Party Divided

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is experiencing increasing internal tensions following widespread speculation surrounding the governorship ambition of Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. At just 39 years old, Seyi is being backed by several youth-led and diaspora groups as the ideal candidate to lead Nigeria’s commercial capital in the 2027 general elections.

Although he has not formally declared his interest, his growing endorsements from groups such as the Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders, The Future Platform, and several Nigerian communities abroad have given political observers reason to believe that underground lobbying is well underway. Should he contest and win, Seyi would become the youngest elected governor in Lagos State’s history, surpassing Babatunde Fashola, who took office at age 43.

However, the growing momentum behind Seyi’s rumoured candidacy has triggered deep concerns within the Governance Advisory Council (GAC)—Lagos APC’s most powerful political organ—and among wider party stakeholders. The GAC, a 30-member council founded by President Tinubu himself in 1999, plays a critical role in deciding political appointments and candidacies within Lagos State.

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Dynasty or Democracy? Concerns Within the Party

Sources within the APC indicate that the GAC is deeply divided on whether to support Seyi Tinubu’s possible entry into the 2027 race. While some members argue that his youth, digital savvy, and name recognition could help rejuvenate the party, others believe his candidacy could backfire and alienate voters who are wary of perceived political dynasties.

A senior party figure from Oshodi-Isolo described the idea as “political arrogance,” warning that it would damage the APC’s image. “It would feel like dictatorship, not democracy. We risk alienating the electorate,” he said, especially with the memory of President Tinubu losing Lagos to Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential election still fresh in the minds of many.

Critics also note that Seyi Tinubu lacks experience in public service or elected office, having mostly been known for his role as CEO of Loatsad Promomedia Ltd, an outdoor advertising firm. In contrast, past governors such as Fashola, Ambode, and Sanwo-Olu had served in public administrative roles before assuming office.

Supporters Cite Global Political Families

Despite the criticism, Seyi Tinubu’s supporters argue that political lineage should not disqualify a competent and capable Nigerian from seeking public office. A pro-Seyi chieftain, Laken Agbaje, pointed to examples such as George W. Bush in the U.S., and the Marcos family in the Philippines. “If the people want him and the party clears him, why not?” Agbaje said, noting that Seyi enjoys strong support from Lagos youths and digital-first voters.

There are also indications that Seyi is already building political influence behind the scenes. Sources suggest that some of his loyalists are strategically positioning themselves to contest for chairmanship positions in the forthcoming Lagos local government elections. This move has raised concerns among residents and civil society groups, who see it as an attempt to consolidate power prematurely.

Zoning and Regional Equity Add Complexity

Beyond concerns about dynastic politics, many APC members are raising the issue of zoning and regional equity. Lagos State is divided into five administrative districts known as IBILE—Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe.

Notably, since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, the governorship has rotated predominantly between Lagos Island and Epe. President Tinubu, Fashola, Ambode, and Sanwo-Olu all hail from these regions. As a result, voices from Ikorodu and Badagry are becoming louder in their demand for power rotation to ensure balance.

This growing sentiment has led to the emergence of alternative candidates within the party, including Babajimi Benson, a serving member of the House of Representatives representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency. He is reportedly receiving quiet support from a faction of the GAC that favors zoning and regional equity.

President Tinubu’s Silence Fuels Uncertainty

What appears to be adding more fuel to the fire is President Bola Tinubu’s silence on the growing calls for his son to run for governor. While he remains politically active at the national level, many Lagos APC stakeholders are said to be uncomfortable with the lack of direction from their longtime leader.

“The lack of clarity is creating a sense of uncertainty within the party, and many of us are unsure how to proceed without guidance from the president himself,” one party source told DAILY POST. For a party heavily structured around Tinubu’s political philosophy, the absence of an explicit position from the president has left room for speculation, division, and unease.

A Crucial Test for Lagos APC

As 2027 draws closer, the APC in Lagos State faces a difficult balancing act—between honoring political loyalty, upholding democratic values, and satisfying regional demands. Whether or not Seyi Tinubu throws his hat into the ring, the growing debate has already exposed underlying tensions within a party that has dominated Lagos politics for more than two decades.

Observers say how the party handles this internal debate will not only shape the 2027 election outcome but may also determine its long-term relevance and credibility among the people of Lagos.