By Musa Bakare.
Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has been a transformative person from his days as the Executive Governor of Lagos state to his assumption of office as the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2023.
His leadership is not solely defined by reforms and policies, but by an extraordinary ability to lead with calm resolve and profound conviction. In a political landscape often riddled with polarization, he provides a stabilizing influence, employing both intellect and empathy in his approach to governance.
In a time where leadership is frequently challenged by division, misinformation, and ideological extremism, President Tinubu stands as a paragon of restraint, maturity, and remarkable tolerance. His political journey reflects an unwavering commitment to inclusivity and democratic principles, essential attributes and quality for Nigeria’s evolving democracy.
During his tenure as Governor of Lagos State, he initiated progressive reforms that reshaped the city’s trajectory. He focused on building robust institutions, empowering communities, and fostering economic growth. Despite facing fierce opposition from entrenched interests and harsh public scrutiny, President Tinubu maintained his composure and remained focused on his vision and mission rather than engaging in vindictiveness, pettiness or populism.
Opposition coalitionists have controversially accused President Tinubu of corruption. However, it is important to note that he has never held a federal government position, nor has he served as a minister, occupied a federal agency post, or been a federal government contractor. This raises a pivotal question: What exactly did he steal from “your plate” and from where?
Compounding this bewilderment is the fact that many of his most vocal critics often lack credible academic credentials themselves, yet they label Asiwaju Tinubu, an excellent graduate of Chicago State University in the United States of certificate forgery. Additionally, some have made unfounded allegations related to drug peddling, despite the absence of any legal ties to these claims in the United States or anywhere in the World.
In pursuit of damaging evidence, political detractors have reportedly expended millions of naira, traveling across the world, to the United States to seek legal records that do not exist.
In the face of these unfounded attacks, President Tinubu has maintained a commendable level of poise, embodying emotional intelligence and a steadfast belief in the eventual triumph of truth.
President Tinubu embraces the cultural and political diversity of Nigeria, recognizing that unity stems from respect and purposeful inclusion rather than uniformity. His leadership promotes national dialogue, ensuring that all Nigerians, irrespective of their backgrounds, have a voice in defining our collective destiny.
One of President Tinubu’s most commendable traits is his ability to withstand lies and insults without engaging in reciprocal aggression. Instead of responding with verbal hostility, he chooses silence, a conscious decision that encapsulates his leadership philosophy. In a political atmosphere dominated by immediate retaliation, his silence is a testament to his strength and statesmanship and president quality.
This restrained approach provokes frustration among opposition coalitionists. His capacity to govern without resorting to vindictive tendencies diminishes their attempts to derail progress.
By prioritizing governance over gossip, President Tinubu has garnered admiration from many Nigerians who desire his transformative political skills marked by strategic discourse rather than bitterness.
As Nigeria grapples with significant economic and social challenges, President Tinubu’s temperament instills genuine renewed hope. His tolerance is strategic, and his forbearance is a manifestation of strength rather than indecision.
Under his administration, the principles of patience, open dialogue, and respect for dissent have emerged as hallmarks of enlightened leadership and approach that is critical as the nation advances toward 2031.
As Nigeria continues its journey under the leadership of President Tinubu, his enduring contributions may very well lie in his quiet strength. This stands as a reminder that genuine leadership is gauged not merely by rhetoric or displays of power, but rather through patience and the capacity to navigate challenges with grace.
– Musa Asiru Bakare, Member APC, Tinubu Support Group (TSG) and Political Analyst, writes from Lokoja, Kogi State.
