By: Bayero Ade
Babafemi Ojudu, a former Special Adviser on Political Matters to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has detailed how he and other close associates convinced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to turn down an invitation to serve as Finance Minister during the administration of the late President Umaru Yar’Adua.
As reported by Politics Nigeria, during an interview on the State Affairs podcast hosted by Edmund Obilo, Ojudu recounted the moment Tinubu informed him of the offer. According to him, Tinubu called to share the news, saying, “Congratulations to me,” which piqued his curiosity. When Ojudu asked for clarification, Tinubu explained, “President Yar’Adua wants me to serve as Finance Minister.”
Ojudu immediately advised against accepting the role, citing political risks and drawing parallels to the late Bola Ige, who was tragically assassinated while serving as Attorney-General and Minister of Justice in President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.
“You are part of the Action Congress. Have you forgotten Bola Ige’s fate? Accepting this position could jeopardize your political future,” Ojudu recalled telling Tinubu.
He wasn’t the only one concerned. Rauf Aregbesola, a longtime ally and former Governor of Osun State, also warned that accepting the position might hinder Tinubu’s broader political ambitions. While a businessman in the discussion suggested the role could be advantageous, Ojudu and Aregbesola strongly disagreed.
Ojudu further argued that taking up the offer might lead to Tinubu’s political downfall, potentially resulting in his arrest and loss of influence. “We had bigger aspirations for him than a ministerial role. It could have ended his political career within months,” Ojudu stated.
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