Former Osun State Governor and All Progressives Congress (APC) pioneer national chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, has revealed that former President Muhammadu Buhari was not pleased with his vice president, Yemi Osinbajo, for contesting against Bola Tinubu in the 2022 APC presidential primaries.
Speaking on a podcast hosted by broadcaster Edmund Obilo, Akande said Buhari was uncomfortable with Osinbajo’s decision to compete against Tinubu, despite efforts to maintain unity among Yoruba aspirants.
Akande dismissed claims that Buhari encouraged Osinbajo to run against Tinubu, who was considered his political mentor.
When asked if Buhari opposed Tinubu’s candidacy, Akande said, “He didn’t tell me so. I asked him many questions, including whether he instigated Osinbajo to contest against Tinubu. He said no and explained that, in his culture, when your mentor is interested in a position, you don’t contest with him.”
Despite discussions aimed at preventing any division among Yoruba politicians, Osinbajo did not step down for Tinubu, Akande recalled.
Tinubu’s Victory in the APC Primaries
At the APC’s 2022 presidential primaries, Tinubu secured 1,271 votes to win the party’s ticket. He defeated 13 other aspirants, including Osinbajo, who finished far behind.
Other contenders included former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi, ex-governor David Umahi, Senator Ahmad Yarima, and former governors Ahmed Lawal, Yahaya Bello, and the late Ogbonnaya Onu.
The contest initially had 23 aspirants, but nine, including former Akwa Ibom Governor Godswill Akpabio and former Ogun Governor Ibikunle Amosun, withdrew before voting began.
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Akande’s Role in Osinbajo’s Political Rise
Akande also reflected on the relationship between Tinubu and Osinbajo, revealing his involvement in Osinbajo’s selection as vice president in 2015.
“In 2011, Tinubu was discussing with Buhari about replacing Bakare with someone. I told Tinubu, ‘I’m going to recommend Osinbajo,’ and I did,” Akande said.
He acknowledged Tinubu’s political growth over the years, describing him as a strategist who had worked hard to build his influence within the party.
With Tinubu now leading the country, Akande’s revelations provide insight into the political maneuvering that shaped the APC’s leadership and the relationships among its key figures.