Doyin Okupe, former Director-General of the Labour Party’s Presidential Campaign, recently praised President Bola Tinubu as Nigeria’s most prepared leader since independence. In an interview, Okupe dismissed critics questioning his support for Tinubu, stating that his stance is based on principle, not personal benefit. He emphasized that young people may misunderstand his history of standing up for what he believes is right, regardless of political alignment.
Okupe shared that he has known Tinubu since their days in NADECO, a pro-democracy movement. Although they were on opposite sides politically, Okupe admired Tinubu’s deep understanding of governance and development. He likened Tinubu’s political vision to that of the late Obafemi Awolowo, saying both men were reformers who cared about public welfare.
He also pushed back against claims that Tinubu came into office without a plan, calling such statements “nonsense.” Okupe, who has worked with two past presidents, said he has never seen a Nigerian leader better prepared for the role. According to Okupe, Tinubu’s experience and reform-driven ideas set him apart from previous Nigerian presidents.