Akinwunmi Ambode: The Technocrat Politician Who Bounced Back

Former Lagos Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, is still turning heads years after leaving office. Granted, his departure from the gubernatorial position was not without pain and sorrow. However, many years after, despite staying out of the way of old colleagues and rivals, Ambode’s presence is indistinguishable from one whose time is ripe for destiny’s approval.

Ambode is a charismatic fellow with enough experience on his part to recognize aggression and peace. This ability is the token that enabled him to return to the circle of power, this time eclipsing the state level and reaching the federal rank in one fell swoop.

Ambode’s return to power comes on the heels of his reunion with his former godfather, President Bola Tinubu. The reunion has heads turning and palms meeting in wonder, all because no one really expected it. But since it happened, it is clear that Ambode will soon be untouchable.

The former governor has not been on very good terms with Tinubu since he retired from office in 2019. Even Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his successor to the Lagos State governorship, is reported to have inherited Ambode’s irritation. Allegedly, Tinubu was the puppet master that had Ambode replaced with Sanwo-Olu.

Ever since his return to normal life, Ambode kept a low profile. Different reports spread abroad about him, from leaving the country to becoming a real estate venture owner. However, when it was time for the presidential elections, street news analysts argued that he had the opportunity to repay his former godfather’s debt. But he ignored such things.

Now that Tinubu has taken the initiative to reconcile with him, Ambode’s reputation will cross the limit. From his narrative, one can learn to be patient with the times, choosing kindness and amity over wickedness and enmity. Even Sanwo-Olu is back to being good friends with him.