A moment of unexpected drama unfolded during the commissioning of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appeared to snub Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The commissioning ceremony, which marked the completion of Phase 1, Section 1 (30 kilometers of a six-lane carriageway), took place in Lagos and drew the presence of several prominent political figures including former Senate President Ahmad Lawan, Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa, and Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State.
As President Tinubu entered the venue, he was seen greeting dignitaries such as Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Finance Minister Wale Edun. However, when he approached Sanwo-Olu—who respectfully bowed in greeting—Tinubu walked past him without a handshake, a moment captured on video that quickly circulated online and stirred conversation.
The Lagos-Calabar highway project began in March 2024, with construction handled by Hitech Construction Company Ltd. Tinubu officially flagged off the first phase in May 2024, which covers 47.47 kilometers of dual carriageway.
President Tinubu Appeals for Patience
In his address, Tinubu called on Nigerians to remain patient amid ongoing economic challenges, assuring them that his administration is working to improve healthcare access, reduce the cost of pharmaceutical production, and prioritize national interest.
“It is all about the people. We are giving all incentives to everyone to abide by the principles of Nigeria First,” Tinubu said.
“I know expectations are still very high, and our people are going through difficult times, but hope is here and it is realisable.”
Alleged Rift Between Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu
The incident has added fuel to rumors of a strained relationship between President Tinubu and Governor Sanwo-Olu, particularly following the controversial impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa, the Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, in February over financial misconduct.
Obasa was later reinstated after 49 days, allegedly following Tinubu’s intervention, which some political observers believe may have caused friction within Lagos political circles.
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While no official statement has been made regarding the viral snub, it continues to generate speculation about potential tensions within the ruling APC in Lagos State.
