Like Ladoke Akintola , Like Tinubu: Uniting Forces with the North | FEMI AJIBOYE

Nigeria’s political landscape has witnessed the rise of influential leaders who have played significant roles in shaping the country’s history. Among these leaders, two names stand out: Samuel Ladoke Akintola and His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Despite belonging to different eras and political parties, both men share a common thread in their approach to politics. They each forged alliances with the North, fostering unity and collaboration between different regions of Nigeria. This article delves into the remarkable stories of Samuel Ladoke Akintola and Bola Ahmed Tinubu, exploring how their strategic alliances with the North impacted their political careers and Nigeria’s political landscape.

Akintola Ladoke: A Visionary Leader:

Samuel Ladoke Akintola was a prominent Nigerian politician who rose to prominence during the first republic in the 1960s. As the deputy leader of the Western Region under Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Akintola embarked on a mission to foster regional cooperation. Recognizing the importance of a united Nigeria, Akintola reached out to leaders from the Northern region, most notably Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto.

Akintola’s alliance with the North was instrumental in solidifying the political stability of the Western Region. He saw the potential for collaboration between the Western and Northern regions and worked tirelessly to ensure that both regions benefited from each other’s strengths. This collaboration led to the formation of the Nigerian National Alliance (NNA), a political coalition that aimed to bridge the gap between the North and the West.

Akintola’s alliance with the North was not without its challenges. It faced resistance from some factions within the Western Region, who viewed the alliance as a betrayal of the region’s interests. However, Akintola remained steadfast in his belief that unity was the key to Nigeria’s progress.

The collaboration between Ladoke and the North yielded several positive outcomes. It resulted in the establishment of the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in the Western Region, with financial support from the Northern-led federal government. This cooperation in education extended to the establishment of the University of Sokoto (now Usmanu Danfodiyo University) in the North. These initiatives showcased the power of collaboration between regions in advancing national development.

Fast forward to the present day, and we encounter another influential Nigerian politician, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Known as the “Jagaban of Borgu,” Tinubu has risen to prominence as a skilled political strategist and influential figure in Nigerian politics. One of his notable achievements has been his ability to form alliances across different regions of the country, particularly with the North.

Tinubu’s alliance with the North is built on a pragmatic understanding of the importance of fostering national unity. He recognized that Nigeria’s diversity could be harnessed as a strength rather than a weakness. By building bridges and forming alliances, Tinubu has been able to extend his political influence beyond his home region, the Southwest.

Tinubu’s alliances with the North have yielded significant political dividends. They have helped to consolidate his influence, not only in the Southwest but also on the national stage. Tinubu’s ability to navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape and forge alliances across regions has positioned him as a formidable force in Nigerian politics.

Furthermore, Tinubu’s alliances have contributed to the emergence of a more inclusive political discourse in Nigeria. By fostering collaboration between different regions, Tinubu has encouraged dialogue and understanding, promoting the idea that Nigeria’s progress depends on the unity of its diverse peoples.

The stories of Ladoke Akintola and Bola Ahmed Tinubu highlight the importance of forging alliances and building bridges across Nigeria’s diverse regions. Both leaders recognized the potential of collaboration with the North in advancing the development and stability of the nation. Their efforts have had a lasting impact on Nigeria’s political landscape, emphasizing the need for unity and cooperation in a country often marred by regional and ethnic divisions.

As Nigeria continues to navigate its political challenges, the legacies of Ladoke Akintola and Bola Ahmed Tinubu serve as a reminder of the power of alliances and the potential for a united Nigeria. Their stories inspire the current generation of leaders to look beyond regional boundaries and work together for the greater good, shaping a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria for all.

FEMI AJIBOYE
BROADCASTER/ JOURNALIST
WRITES FROM OGBOMOSO
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