President Bola Tinubu has revealed that he nearly withdrew from the presidential race but was encouraged to continue by his former placeholder, Aminu Masari, and a few close allies.
Speaking at a special Iftar at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Saturday night, Tinubu recounted a moment of doubt during his campaign. His comments were captured in a statement signed by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.
The president described the obstacles he faced in his bid for office, sharing a particular encounter that nearly made him reconsider his ambition.
“Those close to me know that the odds were against me. During the campaigns, one of them came to my living room around 3:30 am and said he needed just N50,000 to buy foodstuff for our uncle.
“He told me, ‘The currency is gone because of you. People are jumping over bank counters because there is no cash. Our uncle, a wealthy man, doesn’t even have N10,000 in cash. What are you running for?’
“I told him, ‘I am running for President, not for you and our uncle.’ I gave him the N50,000. As he walked out, he turned to me and said, ‘I don’t think you will make it.’ I replied, ‘I will make it.’
“I was amazed. At that moment, I almost dropped the idea of running for President. But thanks to Aminu Masari and all of you who encouraged me. When I came to Abuja, Masari told me, ‘I am the Chairman of the North West Group; don’t look back,’” Tinubu stated.
He acknowledged the economic challenges Nigeria faced when he took office, explaining the urgency behind some of his policy decisions, including the removal of the fuel subsidy.
“On the day of my inauguration, I had to decide on something not originally in my speech, and that was the fuel subsidy removal,” he said.
Tinubu’s remarks shed light on the challenges of his political journey and the difficult decisions he has made since assuming office.
