Nigerian businessman and social commentator Isaac Fayose has stirred debate after faulting senior lawmakers for what he described as an undue show of deference to Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during a recent airport arrival.
In a video that has since gone viral on social media, Fayose drew attention to footage showing several dignitaries, whom he identified as Senate leaders and other government officials, waiting at an airport to receive Seyi Tinubu as he arrived on a private aircraft. He described the scene as inappropriate and labelled it “pure sycophancy,” arguing that such conduct does not befit elected officials in a democratic society.
“There is no position known as ‘First Son of the Nation’ in our Constitution,” Fayose said, questioning the basis for extending special protocol to an individual who holds no constitutional office. He maintained that the gesture detracts from more urgent national concerns and diminishes the dignity of public office.
While noting that he personally admires Seyi Tinubu’s philanthropic efforts and stating that he harbours no personal animosity towards him, Fayose stressed that Nigeria operates a democratic system, not a monarchy where public officials show deference based on family connections.
The video has triggered mixed reactions online. Supporters of Fayose’s position commended his stance, describing it as a necessary call-out of political excess and misplaced loyalty. Critics, however, argued that the reception could simply reflect personal relationships and does not necessarily confer any constitutional status.
The incident has further fuelled public debate on social media, highlighting heightened scrutiny of political elites and ongoing concerns about the optics of power and influence in Nigeria’s democracy.
Isaac Fayose Criticises Senators Over Airport Welcome for Seyi Tinubu
