Tinubu Accused of Funding Thugs While Neglecting Loyal Supporters in Lagos

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is facing growing backlash from within his political base in Lagos State, as long time supporters accuse him of sidelining the very people who helped secure his presidency while allegedly empowering political thugs and street enforcers.

Multiple grassroots campaigners and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos say they feel betrayed after sacrificing time, energy, and even personal resources during the 2023 general elections. Now, many of them claim they have been abandoned while known political enforcers are being rewarded with contracts, money, and political appointments.

“We were the ones sharing fliers, standing at polling units, defending the vote. But since he entered Aso Rock, the only people smiling are the agberos,” said Kunle Ojo, a party youth mobilizer in Oshodi.

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Insiders within the APC Lagos chapter allege that several individuals known to operate within the ranks of informal street structures often referred to as “area boys” have been placed on quiet payrolls or offered state-linked incentives. Meanwhile, loyal party members say they’ve received no follow up, no recognition, and no support from the presidency.

“He built his political structure on the backs of ordinary Lagosians,” said a senior APC chieftain who asked not to be named. “But now he’s acting like those who defended him are disposable. It’s as if governance has become a reward scheme for thugs.”

The criticism is especially strong in areas like Alimosho, Mushin, and Ajegunle, where street-level campaigners played a key role in rallying votes. Some claim they were promised employment, empowerment programs, or financial support, none of which has materialized.

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Adding to the frustration is the perception that Lagos itself is being shortchanged. Despite being Tinubu’s political stronghold, residents say there’s been no significant federal intervention in infrastructure, youth employment, or urban renewal since he took office.

“He owes Lagos. We carried him to the top. But instead of facing our problems, he’s busy giving out rewards to those who only bring fear and violence,” said Aisha Adedayo, a local community organizer in Surulere.

While the presidency has yet to address the growing unrest among Lagos supporters, political analysts warn that such sentiments if left unchecked could weaken Tinubu’s grip on the state ahead of future elections.

Opposition voices have seized on the discontent, calling it proof that the ruling party prioritizes power structures over people. Civil society groups are also urging the president to redirect federal attention toward developmental issues, not patronage politics.

For now, Tinubu remains silent on the accusations. But in the streets of Lagos, the message is loud and clear: the people who stood by him want more than just slogans they want results.