President of the Yoruba Council Worldwide, Oladotu Hassan, has said that nothing prevents President Bola Tinubu and the Labour Party boss, Peter Obi, from collaborating.
This is as he commended Tinubu for repaying the International Monetary Fund (IMF) loan, describing it as a boost for Nigeria’s economy.
He clarified that his remarks were not intended to criticise former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
He said opposition figures like Atiku should focus on supporting good governance rather than forcing themselves into power.
“Leadership can mean promoting good governance through cooperation, not just competition.
“There’s no reason Peter Obi and Tinubu can’t collaborate. They met in Rome and shared smiles, showing potential unity.
“They are not enemies. Nigerians should focus on how to support this government for the common good,” Hassan said.
President of the group, Mr Oladotun Hassan, praised the move in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos.
Hassan said the President had taken a commendable step towards economic recovery by relieving Nigeria of such a major financial obligation.
“I speak as president of the Yoruba Council Worldwide, representing indigenous Yoruba people at home and abroad, and we appreciate President Tinubu’s bold economic decisions.
“He deserves full support and prayers. He has proven his leadership capacity by ensuring the IMF loan has been successfully repaid,” Hassan said.
He further praised Tinubu’s decision to repurpose looted properties for public benefit, describing it as a clear sign of the fight against corruption.
Hassan also noted the President’s efforts to involve the youth through student loan schemes and the creation of a youth academy.
He stated that Nigeria’s global image is improving, and foreign policy is becoming stronger under Tinubu’s leadership.
“These achievements have brought support from various quarters, even opposition parties, with some endorsing him for a second term,” he said.
He cautioned the Afenifere group against turning the issue of power rotation into an ethnic conflict.
Hassan said Afenifere has the right to support any candidate but should not frame it as an ethnic necessity.
“Democracy isn’t about ethnic entitlement. Let’s assess the President’s performance during his eight years before making such demands.
“If Tinubu can pay the IMF loan, he can also reduce food prices significantly, which we’re already seeing.
“Rice prices have dropped from N120,000 to around N50,000 per bag. That’s proof of his economic impact,” he added.
He said the President inherited a struggling system and has focused on rebuilding without blaming others or making excuses.
According to him, Tinubu is giving all Nigerians a chance to thrive through regional development commissions.
“This isn’t politics as usual. Tinubu appoints competent people to handle sensitive positions, not loyalists.
“He is ensuring that every region gets equal attention, regardless of the role of state governors.
“Considering our progress, Tinubu deserves to complete his eight-year term. This isn’t about re-election but continuing a working vision,” Hassan added.
The Federal Government recently confirmed repayment of the $3.4bn IMF emergency loan taken during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, said the repayment, approved by President Tinubu, restores Nigeria’s fiscal credibility.
He said it also addresses financial burdens inherited from past administrations
