An old social media post by Rauf Aregbesola praising President Bola Tinubu has resurfaced online, drawing attention following his recent criticism of the administration.
The 2017 post, which has gained traction on X, showed Aregbesola commending Tinubu’s leadership and acknowledging his role in shaping his political career.
“Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership and the opportunity to work with him to take Lagos forward was a huge factor in making me who I am today,” the tweet read.
Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership and the opportunity to work with him to take Lagos forward was a huge factor in making me who I am today.
The resurfaced comment has sparked reactions on social media, with users contrasting it against Aregbesola’s latest remarks at the convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where he criticised the current administration.
Speaking at the event on Tuesday, the former Minister of Interior described the government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda in stark terms and urged Nigerians to challenge its continuation in office.
“Distinguished delegates and our rival leaders, four years ago, this government promised Nigerians renewed hope for a better future. Now, three years into its four-year term, it still holds promise and offers renewed hope.
“When exactly will this hope come into fruition? The answer is simple. It is a scam. The answer is what? A scam! If allowed, this regime will continue shouting renewed hope to eternity. We have the duty to stop scammers from retaining power,” he said.
Aregbesola, who now serves as the national secretary of the ADC, was previously a close ally of Tinubu.
He served as commissioner for works and infrastructure in Lagos State during Tinubu’s tenure as governor and remained influential in the state’s political structure afterward.
Their relationship, however, later deteriorated amid political disagreements in Osun State, particularly over succession plans ahead of the 2022 governorship election. The rift deepened following the loss of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola to Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party.
In 2025, Aregbesola aligned with opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, as part of efforts to challenge the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general election.