Former presidential spokesman Doyin Okupe has denied ever criticizing President Bola Tinubu, revealing that he has always supported his presidency.
Speaking on Sunday in Lagos, Okupe addressed recent reports that placed him among politicians who once fiercely criticized Tinubu but later became his staunch supporters. Okupe refuted those claims, emphasizing that there is no record of him ever criticizing Tinubu in his long political career.
“I have never in my life criticized Bola Tinubu, even though we were never in the same political party,” Okupe said. He urged those spreading such rumors to check his history, particularly during his time in the Labour Party and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He pointed out that despite their political differences, he has always respected Tinubu’s political vision.
Bond Formed During NADECO Struggle
Okupe recalled the bond formed between them during the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) struggle. He described their shared experiences under severe government pressure, noting how these moments created a strong bond beyond political partisanship. “We were both in different locations, coordinating efforts while he was abroad,” he explained. “That period brought us closer than politics ever could.”
Further defending his support for the president, Okupe explained that, as a patriotic politician, he decided to step down during the 2023 elections. He said he heeded the advice of Yoruba elders to support a South-East candidate for unity. When the candidate he supported did not win, Okupe had no reason not to support Tinubu’s presidency.
The former Labour Party chieftain praised Tinubu for his leadership, describing him as a visionary and patriotic politician. Okupe expressed his confidence that Tinubu would succeed in his presidency, based on his own encounters with him. Despite their political history, Okupe made it clear that his focus now is on supporting the president for the country’s progress.
