DANIEL Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Policy Communication, has said there is nothing in law or politics that can prevent Seyi Tinubu, the president’s son, from contesting for the governorship of Lagos State.
Speaking during an appearance on The Clarity Zone podcast, posted on YouTube on Wednesday monitored by News Point Nigeria, Bwala pushed back against claims that Seyi Tinubu’s rising profile is simply a product of his father’s influence.
He argued that the younger Tinubu has independently built a reputation as a unifier and bridge-builder among Nigerian youths.
“If Seyi Tinubu’s father is the president, what stops him from running for Lagos State governor? Seyi Tinubu can even challenge his father in the next election,” Bwala said.
Bwala described Seyi Tinubu as “humble and unassuming,” despite being the son of one of Nigeria’s most powerful political figures. According to him, Seyi has worked quietly to connect young people to opportunities in government, irrespective of political affiliation.
“At a point, he was even criticised for the people he brought into government, who were mostly Obidients. That tells you he doesn’t have biases,” he explained.
The presidential aide stressed that unlike many children of past Nigerian leaders, Seyi Tinubu has managed to stay clear of corruption allegations and scandals, despite intense public scrutiny.
“You will never see him attacking people on social media, even though his father is one of the most vilified in recent memory. He has built relationships even with critics of this government,” Bwala said.
Bwala, who was a fierce critic of President Tinubu before joining his administration, also disclosed that his past criticism has not affected his personal relationship with Seyi Tinubu.
He described the president’s son as emotionally mature and able to separate politics from personal ties.
He urged Nigerians to judge Seyi Tinubu based on their own experiences with him rather than on hearsay or political propaganda.
“Until you experience somebody, don’t have an opinion of them. Too many people inherit other people’s problems without any personal encounter,” Bwala added.
Bwala’s remarks come amid growing speculation about Seyi Tinubu’s future political plans.
While Seyi has not made any public declaration of interest in elective office, analysts say his increasing involvement in youth mobilisation and philanthropy could be setting the stage for a possible bid for public office, potentially in Lagos State where the Tinubu political dynasty remains influential.