According to the report from the Vanguard, the former Federal Commissioner for Information and South South Leader, Chief Edwin Clark expressed confidence in their long-standing knowledge of President Tinubu, despite not having worked together directly.
He recounted their shared efforts in opposing anti-democratic policies during former President Olusegun Obasanjo's administration (1999-2007), highlighting a particular admiration for Tinubu's courageous stance against Obasanjo's interference in Lagos State's local government system.
He attributed Tinubu's resolve in protecting Lagos State's autonomy as a key factor in its growth and prosperity, emphasizing that Nigerians across the country respect Tinubu for upholding constitutional rights and maintaining the balance of power between state and federal governments.
He said, "I am confident and proud to say that I have known you for many years even though we have never worked together but in our various positions, we successfully fought against anti democratic policies of President Olusegun Obasanjo’s regime between 1999 and 2007, and I developed special admiration for you when you boldly and courageously spoke against President Olusegun Obasanjo’s interference with your State Local Government system.
You are therefore responsible for the growth and wealth of Lagos State today. And Nigerians all over the country admire you, because you never compromise your constitutional right as provided in section 5(2) of the 1999 constitution of Nigeria as amended, which gave you the power and authority to manage the affairs of Lagos State. The constitution recognized the autonomy of the State and they are not subsidiary of the Federal Government. What changes now?"