Former Lagos State Governor and ex-Minister of Works, Babatunde Fashola, has dismissed speculation about a possible presidential ambition, declaring that he has no plans to occupy Nigeria’s highest office.
Fashola made the clarification during an interview on TVC on Wednesday when he was asked whether he intended to contest for the presidency.
His response was brief: “No.”
When the interviewer sought further clarification, the former governor replied with a smile, “President of what? I’m president at home.”
Reflecting on his years in public office, Fashola described the opportunity to serve as a rare privilege and expressed hope that his journey would inspire younger Nigerians.
“My journey has been an unimaginable privilege, and I hope that it, in some way, inspires another generation about the possibilities of this country,” he said.
According to him, Nigeria continues to offer opportunities for those willing to strive, noting that the country has produced many stories of “rags to riches and grass to grace.”
“Particularly because when we celebrate dreams across the Atlantic, our country is also a place where there are so many stories of rags to riches and grass to grace. I hope that it inspires another generation,” he said.
Asked how he would like history to remember him, Fashola said he would leave that judgment to posterity.
“Let history write whatever history wants to write. It is not in my place,” he stated.
The former governor also confirmed that he remains a member of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC), although he stressed the need to respect boundaries in governance.
“There is a thin line between intervention and interference,” he said.
Speaking on national issues, Fashola called for stronger protection of the judiciary, advocated a vibrant opposition, and reiterated his support for the establishment of state police.
He also said addressing flooding in Lagos requires a combination of government intervention and citizens’ cooperation.
Commenting on the Tinubu administration, Fashola said President Bola Tinubu is undertaking critical fiscal and monetary reforms while carrying broader national responsibilities.
