How Gov Ambode Made His Peace With Banire To Escape Wrath Of Tinubu

Charles Oyelesi

Emerging details have it that Governor of Lagos state, Akinwunmi Ambode has made his peace with immediate past Legal Adviser to the ruling All Progressives Congress, Muzi Banire.

Societynow.ng learned that Ambode initiated the move for peace with Banire, who is currently the chairman of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria.

Banire and Ambode were on the opposing sides in the process that produced the former as incumbent Governor of Lagos state.

They remained estranged with Ambode accused of going after Banire’s political and business interests in the bid to justify loyalty to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu – the man that helped him to power.

But all that is now changed as a reversal of political fortune limited Ambode to a term in office.

In messy fallout with political godfather Asiwaju Tinubu and his band of followers, Ambode managed to secure a lifeline via the presidency with the clout of the first lady, Aisha Buhari.

‘’But to maximize the opportunity he has with the President, the governor needed a big help from political players in Lagos state – with access to the president as well – to put in good words for him’’ societynow.ng learned.

Insiders disclosed Ambode initiated moves and eventually ‘’reconciled’’ with Banire and his co-travelers to achieve this.

Banire is adjudged one of the major players in Lagos state with a big influence in Aso Rock at present.

And to his credit, he retains the image of anti one man in charge of all decorating Tinubu.

The image – boosted by his enormous connection as a politician and head of a vibrant law firm – has transformed Banire into the personification of a much-yearned change, with increasing following.

Societynow.ng learned Ambode’s reconciliation with Banire in the bid to maximize the opportunity the association with President Buhari provides has now brought him under the political influence – and cover – the AMCON chairman in Lagos state.

‘’The implication of this is that Ambode now has backings both at the Federal and state level to protect him from the much-anticipated persecution facing him after he leaves office as a result of the fallout with his Tinubu’’ a source stated.

And this move appeared to be paying off as the ‘’baying for the blood’’ of Ambode in the political circle has drastically reduced as he prepares to hand over to Governor-elect. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on May 29, 2019.