In the months leading up to the 2023 presidential election, among many nocturnal sessions, a key meeting took place between Seyi Tinubu, the son of Bola Tinubu, the APC presidential candidate and Dr Hussaini Daura, a prominent Northern Nigerian power broker. The relationship that paved the way for this alliance and these meetings, was set in motion by none other than the esteemed Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, would not just solidify an alliance but shape the future of political campaigning in Northern Nigeria.

It was during this meeting that Hussaini Daura made a resolute promise to Seyi Tinubu — a commitment that would see him support his father, Bola Tinubu’s campaign to the fullest, at no cost. Daura, already a trusted political figure in the North, assured Seyi that he would mobilize resources from his own coffers to promote the campaign in the region. This was not just about rhetoric — Daura followed through on his pledge, investing heavily in logistics, infrastructure, and grassroots mobilisation to ensure that Bola Tinubu’s name resonated in the heart of the North.

Key Players – Seyi and Hussaini, Young Men with Vision.

Seyi Tinubu is the son of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu, the 16th President of Nigeria, and played a significant role in the 2023 presidential campaign, particularly in grassroots mobilisation in the North.

Known for his ability to engage with youth and local leaders, Seyi worked tirelessly to secure support for his father’s candidacy. Dr. Hussaini Daura, a prominent figure in Northern Nigeria, is a key political strategist with deep-rooted influence in the region. As the biological nephew of former President Muhammadu Buhari, Daura has been a trusted power broker in Northern politics, ensuring the loyalty of grassroots supporters and orchestrating political strategies that shaped the success of both Buhari’s and Tinubu’s campaigns in the North.

A Grand Promise, No Cost

 The meeting between Dr Hussaini Daura and Seyi Tinubu marked the beginning of a strategic partnership. Daura made it clear to Seyi that his support would not come with a price tag. In a conversation that remains pivotal to understanding the depth of their alliance, Seyi asked Daura about the budget for the campaign — a breakdown of costs for the program, the office setup, transportation, and other logistical expenses.

Hussaini’s response was simple yet powerful: “I am doing it for my father, Asiwaju,” referring to Bola Tinubu, using a term of respect and endearment for the elder Tinubu. Hussaini explained that just as he had never asked for compensation when supporting Buhari, he would not seek payment for his efforts in promoting Tinubu’s campaign.

This conversation encapsulated Daura’s unwavering loyalty to the Tinubu family, especially to Bola Tinubu, whom he viewed not just as a political leader, but as a guiding figure for the country’s future. “When you do something for your father, you don’t expect to be paid,” Hussaini emphasized to Seyi. His commitment was rooted in a deep sense of duty — not for financial gain, but for the larger goal of supporting the man he believed was destined to lead Nigeria to greater heights.

The Office Launch and Promises Fulfilled

Following this meeting, Hussaini’s promises began to materialize. He and his team went on to provide logistics, purchase cars, arrange for souvenirs and gifts, and set up a large office in Daura — a central hub for the campaign in the North West. The office(s) were to be a place where supporters could gather, strategize, and galvanize for Tinubu’s bid for presidency. In addition, Daura opened other offices in key regions, deploying resources to ensure that the North West became a stronghold for the Tinubu campaign. Locally, there was campaigning, bridge building, logistics for voters as well as community security to secure voters, INEC officers and the votes.

In a further demonstration of his commitment, Daura invited Seyi Tinubu and his entourage to Daura for a visit, during which they would officially launch the office and engage in a series of rallies. These events brought together throngs of supporters, drawn not only from Daura but from all over the North West region. The rallies were a testament to the success of Daura’s mobilization efforts, which ensured that Tinubu’s message reached deep into the rural areas of Northern Nigeria.

Seyi Tinubu, who had been impressed by the scale of the operation, acknowledged Daura’s immense contribution to the campaign. “For the first time in my life, someone has done this for Asiwaju, without asking for anything in return,” Seyi remarked, recognizing Daura’s selflessness and unwavering support.

The Appreciation of Contributions

 Seyi was clearly impressed with Dr Daura’s work. “I will always remember how you did all this for my father without asking for anything,” Seyi stated, a sentiment that underscored the sincerity of Daura’s actions.

A Legacy of Grassroots Politics

At its core, this meeting between Hussaini Daura and Seyi Tinubu marked more than just a political alliance

— it was a commitment to upholding the values of loyalty, service, and selflessness in Nigerian politics. Daura, as a key ally of both Buhari and Tinubu, demonstrated the kind of behind-the-scenes work that is often overlooked in favour of flashy public campaigns. His grassroots mobilization and financial contributions ensured that Tinubu’s message reached even the most remote parts of the North, a crucial factor in securing the presidency for the APC.

The story of this meeting is a reminder that in Nigerian politics, it is not always the visible leaders who are shaping the future — it is the unseen hands working tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring that campaigns run smoothly and efficiently. Hussaini Daura’s role in Bola Tinubu’s victory is a testament to the power of loyalty, commitment, and selfless service to the greater good of the nation. As of our last check, Dr Daura remains a loyal supporter of Seyi Tinubu and ultimately his father, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu who is serving as the 16th and current president of Nigeria since 2023.

Yerima wrote in from Katsina State.