By Adeola Agoro
Recently, news was awash with talk of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu allegedly at loggerheads with a Governor in the South-West.
Reports described him as fuming and deeply upset. Yet, those who know him well only chuckled because they understand the man he truly is.
The supposed ‘frenemy’ may have been unsettled, but deep down, he knew the nature of the man across the table: someone who might get angry, but rarely holds a grudge. A man who forgives easily and extends second chances like an open hand.
In truth, I can’t think of anyone BAT has had issues with, past or present, that he has not eventually made peace with. I won’t mention names, but many of us know them. They are not few.
We all witnessed how the late President Muhammadu Buhari didn’t exactly support Tinubu’s emergence as the APC flag-bearer in the last election. Tinubu had to fight hard to earn that ticket and win the 2023 election. But when he became President, he never used his position to ridicule or belittle his predecessor. He acknowledged that he inherited challenges, yes, but he never made Buhari uncomfortable neither through his words nor actions.
And this spirit of maturity didn’t stop with Buhari. Many who openly opposed Tinubu and the APC during the elections were invited, sincerely, to work with his administration. Those who accepted were welcomed.
When death came calling for the former President, Tinubu not only ensured that Buhari’s remains were returned home with honour, he was physically present to pay his last respects and oversee a befitting farewell.
His friendships, however complex, rarely end in hatred. He gives his best with heart and soul.
Some may say he’s just playing politics. But how many of those who say so can maintain dignity, fairness, and compassion even in politics?
Whatever your views about Tinubu, one thing is clear: there are valuable lessons to be learned from how he handles people and power. If more politicians would take a leaf from his approach rooted in respect, forgiveness, and tact, our political landscape would be much healthier.
There are many more lessons to draw from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but for now, these three stand out:
Friendship. Forgiveness. Positive politicking.
