The governor of Lagos, Babajide Sanwo-Olu was absent on Thursday when President Bola Tinubu flagged off the reconstruction of the deep seaport access road in Epe, Ijebu-Ode area of the state.
Several dignitaries, including Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno, and Femi Hamzat, deputy governor of Lagos, attended the event.
Sanwo-Olu’s seat was clearly labelled, but he was noticeably absent, with his deputy, Hamzat, seated behind it.
Speaking at the event, Tinubu directed his remarks at the deputy governor rather than Sanwo-Olu.
The president also cautioned governors against issuing planning approvals for unauthorised islands and developments that encroach on designated road setbacks and maritime zones.
“Please, our dear governors, let’s work together. Don’t give planning approvals without collaborating with the surveyor-general of the federation and the ministry of works on these roads,” the president said.
“I’m glad the deputy governor of Lagos state is here. Take it that we will revoke all those approvals given on setbacks, and please note that we are very serious about it. No more approvals for those unapproved islands being created illegally.”
While the Lagos government has not given an official reason for Sanwo-Olu’s absence from the event, it may be linked to the alleged rift between the two politicians.
On Saturday, Tinubu snubbed Sanwo-Olu during the inauguration of the completed phase 1, section 1 (30km by six lanes) of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway.
The event was attended by personalities, including former Senate President Ahmed Lawan, Zulum, Douye Diri, governor of Bayelsa, and Bassey Otu, governor of Cross River.
Tinubu exchanged pleasantries by shaking hands with the dignitaries as he proceeded along the line of officials.
However, when Tinubu reached Sanwo-Olu, he ignored the Lagos governor and extended a handshake directly to greet Ahmed Ododo, the governor of Kogi, who was next in line.
There has been speculation that Sanwo-Olu and Tinubu are not on good terms following the impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa as Lagos assembly speaker.
Obasa was removed from office by a majority of lawmakers in February over allegations of financial misconduct but was later reinstated after 49 days following the alleged intervention of Tinubu.
