The Lagos State Government has moved swiftly to dismiss reports circulating on online platforms suggesting a breakdown in relations between Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Ogun State counterpart, Prince Dapo Abiodun, describing the claims as entirely false and contrary to the cordial relationship that exists between the two leaders.
The clarification was issued on Thursday in a statement signed by Gboyega Akosile, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Lagos State Governor, and made available to PUNCH Online. The statement sought to address what the government characterised as unfounded speculation appearing on various online media platforms and blogs, which it said had wrongly insinuated a rift between the two governors.
“The attention of Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, has been drawn to some reports making the rounds in some online media platforms and blogs, insinuating that there is a rift between Governor Sanwo-Olu and his Ogun State counterpart, Prince Dapo Abiodun,” the statement read. “We wish to state clearly that this is not true. In fact, it is the direct opposite of the relationship that exists between the two leaders.”
Akosile emphasised that the two governors maintain a close and functional working relationship characterised by regular consultation and mutual respect. He described their interaction as rooted in shared governance priorities and the geographical proximity of their states, which naturally demands collaboration on issues of common interest.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Prince Dapo Abiodun and Governor Sanwo-Olu enjoy a very cordial brotherly relationship,” the statement continued. “The two brother-Governors meet regularly and speak with each other frequently on matters of mutual interest for the development of their respective states. This is partly because their states share common boundaries and are also bound together by socio-cultural norms.”
The statement represents the latest effort by the Lagos State Government to counter narratives it considers damaging to the political harmony between the neighbouring southwestern states. Lagos and Ogun share extensive borders and significant socio-economic ties, with many residents of Ogun commuting daily to Lagos for work and business. The two states also collaborate on infrastructure projects, security operations, and regional development initiatives, making their relationship critical to the stability and prosperity of the southwestern region.
Both governors belong to the All Progressives Congress and have historically worked together on party matters and policy coordination. Any perceived discord between the two leaders would carry implications not only for their states but also for the broader political dynamics within the APC-controlled southwest.
Akosile cautioned against what he described as deliberate attempts to sow discord between the two leaders through the spread of misinformation. He warned those responsible to desist from such activities, stressing that both governors remain united by a shared vision for development and improved quality of life for their citizens.
“We, therefore, would like to advise those seeking to plant a seed of discord between the two leaders with fake news to desist forthwith, as both Prince Dapo Abiodun and Mr Sanwo-Olu are bound by a common vision to make life more abundant for their respective people,” the statement concluded.
