Former Lagos State Governor and former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, has stated that he prefers to offer private advice to President Bola Tinubu rather than criticize his administration publicly.
During an interview on TVC News on Wednesday, Fashola explained that he intentionally avoids making public comments on the President’s performance, choosing instead to communicate his views directly to Tinubu.
Fashola revealed that President Tinubu personally reaches out to him for feedback on areas needing improvement, especially as the administration looks ahead to the 2027 elections. “He calls me today and says, ‘Identify one area where my administration must improve as we count down to 2027. What would you advise me?’ So, should I speak to the President on TV? I’ve told myself I would not do that, Fashola said.
He emphasized the importance of keeping their communication channel open, stating, I have his ears, and when I need to see him, I’ve advised on a few things. I think that we must keep that channel open. It’s not my intention to advise him on television.
When asked if the administration had any blind spots after three years, Fashola rejected the notion, saying, There are no blind spots in this administration. You can’t be shouting at somebody whose ear you have.
Despite suggestions that stepping away from active politics would make him more outspoken, Fashola insisted his approach remains unchanged. He also ruled out any presidential ambitions, responding simply, No, and joking, President of what? I’m president at home.
Reflecting on his over two decades in public service, Fashola called it an unimaginable privilege and expressed hope that his journey would inspire future generations of Nigerians. He declined to address speculation about his preferred successor in the 2015 Lagos governorship election.
Fashola confirmed his continued membership in the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council but clarified that advising government is different from interfering, remarking, There is a thin line between intervention and interference.
