- Former APC leader in South Africa praises President’s son for youth engagement and political courage
A former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in South Africa, Mr Bola Babarinde, has come to the defence of Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, describing him as a patriotic youth whose contributions to Nigeria’s political process deserve commendation rather than criticism.
Speaking in Lagos on Saturday, Babarinde, who also serves as the General Secretary of Renewed Hope Global, said the younger Tinubu has distinguished himself through active political engagement and unwavering loyalty to national development efforts.
“Seyi stands today as a symbol of youth participation in governance and a beacon of hope for Nigerian youth,” Babarinde said. “Rather than vilify him, we ought to support his efforts and celebrate his patriotism.”
Breaking Tradition
In a country where children of political leaders often avoid the public spotlight, Seyi Tinubu’s prominent role in the 2023 general elections marked a notable departure from tradition.
“Historically, children of leaders like Awolowo, Azikiwe, Abiola, and even more recent figures such as Obasanjo and Buhari have remained distant from Nigeria’s volatile political terrain,” Babarinde noted.
“But Seyi Tinubu broke that mould.”
During the 2023 elections, Seyi was actively involved in his father’s presidential campaign, accompanying him to major rallies, mobilising youth participation, and launching grassroots empowerment initiatives across the country.
Babarinde described his contributions as not only significant but pivotal to the eventual victory of the APC at the polls.
Youth Leadership in Action
The APC stalwart recalled how Seyi Tinubu initiated programmes to engage young voters, distributed food relief, and led his own outreach campaigns, particularly targeting first-time voters.
“He was the first son of a major presidential candidate to so visibly and vigorously participate in a nationwide campaign,” Babarinde said. “He showed resilience, courage, and a readiness to serve.”
Since the election, Seyi Tinubu has remained publicly aligned with his father’s administration, frequently participating in both domestic and international engagements.
Babarinde dismissed growing criticism of Seyi’s visibility, saying detractors fail to recognise the sacrifices and risks he took during the campaign season.
“Rather than retreat to the comfort of wealth and overseas privilege, Seyi chose to face the uncertainties of Nigerian politics,” he said. “That alone is worthy of recognition.”
Call for Recognition
Babarinde urged Nigerians, particularly critics on social media, to judge Seyi Tinubu based on his values, actions, and dedication — not just his lineage.
“Enough of the campaign of calumny,” he said. “Seyi Tinubu deserves praise, not because of who his father is, but for the personal commitment he has demonstrated towards public service.”
He further argued that Seyi’s active involvement in politics stands as a sharp contrast to elite figures who isolate their children from the realities of the Nigerian state.
“Many of our leaders send their children abroad to live detached lives. But Seyi chose to stay, serve, and stand with his people,” he added.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with the task of youth inclusion and political renewal, voices like Babarinde’s are calling for a new approach — one that encourages and supports young leaders, rather than tearing them down for daring to engage.
