When I Met Tinubu In Lagos, He Was Looking At Me As If I Was Sick Or Something- Bisi Akande

When I Met Tinubu In Lagos, He Was Looking At Me As If I Was Sick Or Something- Bisi Akande

Former Osun State Governor, Bisi Akande, has alleged that the 'Obidient' movement orchestrated the 2020 #EndSARS protests to undermine Bola Tinubu's presidential aspirations. In an interview with Edmund Obilo, Akande claimed the protests were "manufactured" in the United States. He stated, "EndSARS was specifically aimed at ending Tinubu's political career. Those behind it knew exactly what they were doing."

The #EndSARS movement began in October 2020 as a nationwide protest against police brutality, particularly targeting the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). The demonstrations called for comprehensive reforms within the Nigeria Police Force. Akande contends that the protests were a strategic effort by the Obidient movement, which he claims was "created in America to thwart Tinubu's plans." He further alleged, "The Obidients came from America to organize EndSARS, which later evolved into a movement. Unable to form their own political party, they simply joined existing ones. It was all carefully planned and well-funded with money from America."

In addition to his assertions about the #EndSARS protests, Akande revealed his role in persuading Tinubu to run for the 2023 presidency. He recounted that Tinubu was initially hesitant due to financial concerns, saying, "When I met him (Tinubu), he said, 'Baba, do you have money? If I had the kind of money that people have to be president, I would rank with Dangote'." Akande used Yoruba traditions to encourage Tinubu, explaining, "I told him, 'We don’t want you to be president for your sake. You’re not the focus here. But according to Yoruba tradition, when offering to the gods, you choose the best animal or the largest yam. The Yoruba want to have a president, and you’re the one we have right now. It’s a sacrifice for the greater good of having a president, not for your personal benefit'." Tinubu expressed concerns about his health, to which Akande responded, "Go ahead and do it. There's still time. You'll recover in six months."

The #EndSARS protests were a significant event in Nigeria's recent history, leading to widespread discussions about police reform and governance. While Akande attributes the movement to the Obidient faction, others view it as a spontaneous uprising against systemic issues. The Obidient movement, associated with supporters of Peter Obi, has continued to mobilize ahead of future elections, forming committees and strategizing for the 2027 presidential race.