Let's delve into a detailed narrative of their relationship, highlighting key events, interactions, and the impact on Nigerian politics.
### Early Encounters and Political Alliances
#### The Formation of the APC
The relationship between Tinubu and Buhari began to take shape during the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013. The APC was created as a merger of four opposition parties: the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), led by Tinubu; the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), led by Buhari; the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP); and a faction of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). This merger was a strategic move to challenge the dominance of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Nigerian politics.
#### The 2015 Presidential Election
The 2015 presidential election was a turning point in their relationship. Tinubu played a crucial role in Buhari's campaign, leveraging his political influence and resources to secure Buhari's victory. Buhari's win marked the first time in Nigeria's history that an incumbent president was defeated in an election. This victory solidified the alliance between Tinubu and Buhari, with Tinubu being seen as a kingmaker in Nigerian politics.
### Collaboration and Governance
#### Early Years of Buhari's Presidency
In the early years of Buhari's presidency, Tinubu and Buhari maintained a collaborative relationship. Tinubu's influence was evident in key appointments and policy decisions. However, as Buhari's administration progressed, tensions began to surface. Tinubu's expectations of having significant control over the administration were not fully met, leading to friction between the two leaders.
#### The 2019 Presidential Election
The 2019 presidential election further tested their relationship. While Tinubu continued to support Buhari's re-election bid, there were underlying tensions. Some of Tinubu's allies felt marginalized within the APC, and there were concerns about Buhari's commitment to power-sharing within the party. Despite these challenges, Buhari was re-elected, and Tinubu's influence remained intact.
### Tensions and Strategic Maneuvering
#### The Cold War
The period following Buhari's re-election saw a "cold war" between Tinubu and Buhari. This phase was characterized by strategic maneuvering and political calculations. Tinubu's ambition to run for president in 2023 became a focal point of contention. Buhari's reluctance to openly endorse Tinubu's candidacy added to the tension.
#### The "Emi Lokan" Speech
In 2022, Tinubu delivered a speech in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where he declared, "Emi lokan" (It's my turn). This speech was seen as a direct challenge to Buhari and a declaration of his presidential ambition. The speech highlighted the growing rift between the two leaders and set the stage for a contentious primary election within the APC.
### The 2023 Presidential Election
#### Tinubu's Presidential Campaign
Tinubu's campaign for the 2023 presidential election was marked by strategic alliances and political maneuvering. Despite the tensions with Buhari, Tinubu managed to secure the APC's presidential ticket. His campaign focused on his track record as the governor of Lagos State and his vision for Nigeria's future.
#### Buhari's Role in the Election
Buhari's role in the 2023 election was complex. While he did not openly endorse Tinubu, he also did not actively oppose him. Buhari's neutral stance allowed Tinubu to navigate the political landscape and build alliances with key stakeholders within the APC.
### Tinubu's Presidency and the Evolving Relationship
#### Tinubu's Inauguration
On May 29, 2023, Bola Ahmed Tinubu was inaugurated as the President of Nigeria. The inauguration marked a new chapter in Nigerian politics and the relationship between Tinubu and Buhari. While their relationship had been marked by tension and strategic maneuvering, Tinubu's presidency offered an opportunity for reconciliation and collaboration.
#### Early Days of Tinubu's Presidency
In the early days of his presidency, Tinubu focused on implementing his policy agenda and addressing the economic challenges facing Nigeria. His administration's efforts to remove the fuel subsidy and implement tax reforms were bold moves aimed at stabilizing the economy. These decisions, however, also led to significant public discontent and economic hardships.
#### Reconciliation Efforts
Despite the challenges, there were efforts to reconcile the differences between Tinubu and Buhari. Public appearances and meetings between the two leaders signaled a potential thaw in their relationship. These efforts were aimed at fostering unity within the APC and ensuring a stable political environment.
### Reflections and Future Prospects
#### Impact on Nigerian Politics
The relationship between Tinubu and Buhari has had a profound impact on Nigerian politics. Their alliance and subsequent tensions have shaped the dynamics within the APC and influenced key policy decisions. The strategic maneuvering and political calculations between the two leaders reflect the complexities of Nigerian politics.
#### Long-Term Legacy
As Tinubu's presidency progresses, the long-term legacy of his relationship with Buhari will continue to unfold. Their interactions and the outcomes of their political strategies will be studied and analyzed for years to come. The lessons learned from their relationship will provide valuable insights into the nature of political alliances and power dynamics in Nigeria.
### Conclusion
The relationship between Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Muhammadu Buhari is a testament to the intricate and often turbulent nature of Nigerian politics. From their early collaboration in forming the APC to the tensions and strategic maneuvering that characterized their interactions, their relationship has been a defining factor in the political landscape of Nigeria. As Tinubu's presidency continues, the evolving dynamics between the two leaders will remain a focal point of interest and analysis.
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This detailed narrative captures the key events and dynamics of the relationship between Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Muhammadu Buhari. If you have any more questions or need further details, feel free to ask!
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