Bola Ahmed Tinubu, often referred to as the “Jagaban” of Nigerian politics, has had an intriguing journey from the private sector to becoming one of the most influential political figures in Nigeria. His story is one of resilience, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of Nigeria’s political landscape.
Early Life and Education
Born on March 29, 1952, Tinubu’s early life was rooted in the southwestern region of Nigeria. He attended St. John’s Primary School, Aroloya, Lagos, and Children Home School in Ibadan. In the mid-1970s, Tinubu moved to the United States to pursue higher education. He studied at Richard J. Daley College in Chicago before transferring to Chicago State University, where he graduated in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting .
Professional Career
Tinubu’s professional career began in the United States, where he worked as an accountant for several prestigious firms, including Arthur Andersen, Deloitte, and GTE Services Corporation. His skills and expertise soon earned him a position at Mobil Oil Nigeria upon his return to Nigeria in 1983. Rising through the ranks, Tinubu became an executive at the company, showcasing his leadership and management abilities
Transition to Politics
Tinubu’s foray into politics began in the early 1990s. In 1991, he joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and quickly made a name for himself. By 1992, he was elected as the Senator representing Lagos West in the Nigerian Third Republic. However, his political journey took a dramatic turn following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential elections, a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s history.
In response to the annulment, Tinubu became a founding member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a pro-democracy group that campaigned for the restoration of democratic governance and the recognition of Moshood Abiola as the rightful winner of the 1993 election. His activism during this period led to his exile in 1994 under the military regime of General Sani Abacha. Tinubu returned to Nigeria in 1998 following Abacha’s death, which marked the beginning of Nigeria’s transition to the Fourth Republic.
Governorship and Political Influence
In 1999, Tinubu was elected as the Governor of Lagos State under the platform of the Alliance for Democracy (AD). His tenure as governor, which lasted until 2007, was marked by significant developments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Tinubu’s administration initiated new road constructions, expanded public services, and improved the state’s revenue generation mechanisms .
Tinubu’s influence extended beyond his governorship. He played a crucial role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and has been instrumental in mentoring numerous politicians who have risen to prominence in Nigerian politics. His political acumen earned him the nickname “the Kingmaker” due to his ability to shape political outcomes and support candidates who have gone on to achieve significant positions, including the Vice President and several state governors.
Legacy and Criticisms
Despite his achievements, Tinubu’s political career has not been without controversy. Critics argue that his role as a political godfather undermines democratic principles and fosters a culture of loyalty over merit. Allegations of corruption and questions about his wealth have also been points of contention. Nevertheless, Tinubu’s impact on Nigerian politics is undeniable, and his journey from the private sector to the pinnacle of political power continues to be a source of inspiration and debate.
Conclusion
Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s journey from business to politics is a testament to his strategic vision and relentless pursuit of influence in Nigeria. His ability to navigate complex political landscapes and mentor future leaders has solidified his legacy as a central figure in Nigerian politics.
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Written By Joe Brens