- Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu faces backlash for renaming a road after Seyi Tinubu, President Tinubu’s son
- Critics argue the decision lacks justification, with many noting Seyi Tinubu’s lack of contributions to Sokoto or Nigeria
Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu is under fire for renaming a road in the state after Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu. Previously known as “Pepsi Road,” the road was set to be inaugurated on June 3 by Katsina State Governor Umaru Dikko Radda, but the event was postponed.
On Saturday, a photo of the newly named “Seyi Ahmed Bola Tinubu Road” circulated widely on social media, sparking controversy ahead of its rescheduled inauguration, the date for which remains unannounced.
Critics argue that Governor Aliyu’s decision lacks justification, as Seyi Tinubu has not made notable contributions to Sokoto or Nigeria. Salisu Ahmadu, a resident, expressed his discontent to Peoples Gazette, stating, “The governor overlooked many prominent Sokoto natives and instead named a road after the president’s son, who has no ties to Sokoto or the northern region.”
An X user, @UncleAnass, shared a photo of the road and commented, “This is how @Ahmedaliyuskt is tarnishing Sokoto’s reputation with his poor judgment. Naming a road after Seyi Tinubu, not even President Tinubu himself, is pathetic.”
Another user, Heinz_Gunner, remarked, “Road to North Korea. This is how it begins!!” Meanwhile, @jnraib2 added, “Even Lagos didn’t name a road after Seyi Tinubu, but Sokoto governor must impress Tinubu.” @AsIngawa001 criticized, “Seyi Tinubu Road in Sokoto State stands as a testament to Nigeria’s habit of celebrating individuals with minimal contributions to the country’s progress.”
Attempts to contact Abubakar Bawa, the governor’s spokesperson, for comments were unsuccessful.
Despite holding no official position in his father’s administration, Seyi Tinubu appears influential within the APC, often accompanying his father on international trips.