In a recent interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Doyin Okupe, the former Director-General of Peter Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign council, defended President Bola Tinubu against what he considers unfair criticism. Okupe made it clear that the South West region, which holds Tinubu in high regard, will no longer stand by as people insult their regional leader.

Okupe’s remarks come at a time when Nigerians are feeling the impact of several challenging policies introduced under Tinubu’s administration. Despite these hardships, Okupe believes that criticisms aimed at Tinubu are unwarranted and that respect for the president should be upheld, particularly by the people of the South West. He described Tinubu as “the apple of our eyes” for the South West, emphasizing that Tinubu’s intentions for Nigeria’s progress should not be questioned.

Okupe acknowledged that Nigeria is currently facing economic difficulties, including rising inflation, fuel price hikes, and increased living costs, which have impacted millions across the country. Many Nigerians are vocal about their discontent with the administration’s policies, which they feel have worsened their standard of living. However, Okupe urged Nigerians to remain patient, expressing confidence that Tinubu has a vision to improve the country over time.

“From now on, we are no longer going to keep quiet for people who think they can just insult Bola Tinubu,” Okupe declared. His statement reflects a broader sentiment of loyalty and respect among many in the South West, who view Tinubu as a significant and positive force in Nigerian politics. According to Okupe, while the path may be rough now, Tinubu’s dedication to Nigeria’s progress should be appreciated, not questioned.

Bola Tinubu, a former governor of Lagos State, is widely regarded as an influential leader in the South West. His decades-long political career has built him a loyal following, especially among the Yoruba people in the region. His supporters see him as a leader who has positively impacted Lagos and the South West, and they expect that his policies as president will eventually benefit the entire nation.

Okupe’s stance on defending Tinubu aligns with the sentiment of many who view criticism of Tinubu as criticism of the South West itself. By standing up for Tinubu, Okupe signals that disrespecting the president is, in a way, disrespecting the culture and pride of the South West region. Okupe expressed confidence that Tinubu has the wisdom and foresight needed to lead Nigeria toward a better future.

Since taking office, Tinubu has introduced policies aimed at restructuring the economy, which he believes will eventually lead to growth. However, these changes have led to immediate hardships for Nigerians, especially as subsidies on fuel were removed, leading to skyrocketing prices. In response, Tinubu’s government has promised economic reforms, though many remain skeptical due to the short-term impact on everyday life.

Okupe’s comments highlight the difficult balance the administration faces: implementing policies that, while necessary for economic reform, have temporarily increased financial pressure on citizens. Okupe’s defense suggests that people should judge Tinubu’s leadership not only by current conditions but by his long-term goals for Nigeria.

Okupe’s call for patience and respect reflects a broader message to Nigerians: to support leadership, even in tough times, trusting that positive change is in sight. He believes that Tinubu’s past achievements as a leader in the South West should give Nigerians confidence in his ability to address the country’s pressing issues.

Okupe’s defense of Tinubu reminds Nigerians of the importance of unity and respect for leadership, particularly during challenging times. His message may resonate with those who, despite the hardships, see Tinubu as a capable leader who needs time to fulfill his vision for Nigeria’s future.

In conclusion, Doyin Okupe’s defense of President Tinubu is a reminder of the deep loyalty and respect Tinubu commands in the South West. Okupe’s statement calls for patience and emphasizes that the challenges Nigerians face today could pave the way for a stronger, more stable Nigeria under Tinubu’s leadership. Whether or not the nation can rally behind this vision remains to be seen, but Okupe’s message is clear: the South West stands firmly behind Tinubu and expects the rest of Nigeria to show respect, too.