I find myself wondering whether, despite everything, Tinubu might be one of the most emotionally intelligent presidents Nigeria has produced.
Admittedly, there was the now much-ridiculed “Emilokan” moment, clearly an emotional outburst. Yet some discerning minds interpret it more as political rhetoric or strategy than a lapse in control. Beyond that, it is difficult to recall many instances of controversial remarks or openly offensive reactions from him, even though such tendencies often become the hallmark of leaders who grow carried away by the spoils of office.
When one considers the conduct of many governors, some of whom behave like “semi-gods”, and even individuals outside formal authority, the contrast becomes more striking.
Take, for example, Senate President Akpabio, who has not been free from controversy, from remarks about insecurity ending by 2027 to “I don’t care” comments. Kashim Shettima, too, has had to apologize on several occasions. In the opposition camp, figures like Amaechi, Kwankwaso, Atiku, and El-Rufai have at times appeared emotional, making claims that seem to stretch logic or restraint.
Looking further back:
Olusegun Obasanjo (1999–2007) was known for bluntness and public scolding. Even after leaving office, his conduct at a LAUTECH event in Iseyin, where he rebuked traditional rulers drew widespread criticism as an unnecessary public humiliation.
Goodluck Jonathan (2010–2015), during a 2014 visit to Borno, was reported to have reacted angrily to comments by Governor Shettima, even threatening to withdraw troops, an action widely criticized as reactive and ill-judged.
Muhammadu Buhari, both before and during his presidency, faced criticism for statements perceived as divisive or lacking empathy, including remarks during the 2011 campaign and responses to the #EndSARS protests.
Atiku Abubakar’s tenure as Vice President (1999–2007) was marked by a prolonged and public feud with Obasanjo, reflecting an inability on both sides to manage disagreements privately. More recently, both Atiku and Peter Obi claimed victory in the 2023 presidential election, the position that logically could not both be correct.
To be fair, Tinubu has had his own moments, such as the 2022 Abeokuta comment, “I made Buhari President,” which many saw as spoken in anger or provocation. Critics labeled it entitlement. Still, emotional control is often subjective: what some call bluntness or honesty, others interpret as insensitivity.
Yet, in the face of sustained criticism, strong anti-government sentiment, and frequent personal attacks, Tinubu appears to have maintained notable emotional restraint. Many leaders, like governors and ministers, have not consistently shown the same composure.
It is also worth noting his ability to manage political relationships. During Buhari’s eight years in office, Tinubu largely masked any personal frustrations, preserving their alliance despite clear tensions.
That patience arguably contributed to his eventual political success, even amid skepticism and the risk of a strained relationship at critical moments.
One might even ask: Is it a sign of strength that he rarely responds directly to daily jabs or insults? Perhaps there is something to be said for that restraint.
Whether one agrees or disagrees with his politics, there is an argument to be made that Tinubu has demonstrated an uncommon degree of emotional resilience in Nigeria’s political space. In that sense, it is tempting, perhaps even ironic, to describe him as something of a “peace ambassador.”
It may also partly explain why the APC continues to attract a wide range of top politicians and incumbents, rightly or wrongly.
Bagudu Mohammed
bagudumohammed15197@gmail.com
