Ambode Breaks Silence: 9 Powerful Reasons I Was Removed as Lagos Governor

By Achimi Muktar

A bombshell statement allegedly made by former Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, is making waves across social media—and it’s nothing short of explosive.

Ambode, who governed Nigeria’s commercial capital from 2015 to 2019, has remained largely silent about the behind-the-scenes power struggles that led to his abrupt political exit. But now, a viral post credited to him is pulling back the curtain on what really went down—and it's painting a picture of political resistance, internal sabotage, and high-stakes betrayal.

In 2018, Ambode lost the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primary to Babajide Sanwo-Olu—an event that shocked many, given that Ambode was the incumbent governor. Despite losing the party’s ticket, he toed the party line and supported Sanwo-Olu’s campaign. But now, a detailed account allegedly from Ambode has emerged, listing nine key reasons he believes he was pushed out.

Among the most explosive claims is that Ambode refused to “pad the budget with 10%” for members of the Lagos State House of Assembly, led by Bayo Osinowo and Mudashir Obasa. He also reportedly denied key political figures—including former Governor Rauf Aregbesola and national leader Bola Tinubu—lucrative contracts and concessions.

In the statement, Ambode is quoted as saying:

“I constructed 22 roads in Alimosho and refused to award any of the contracts to Aregbesola and Co.”

“I insisted that contracts awarded to party leaders under Fashola must be executed before awarding new ones under my administration.”

“I wanted to phase out Danfos and Area Boys and replace them with smarter transportation systems.”

“I refused to pad the budget with 10% for House of Assembly members.”

“I declined to grant the 4th Mainland Bridge concession to Tinubu’s Hitech.”

“I rejected a request to increase the state revenue cut paid to Tinubu’s Alpha Beta from 10% to 20%.”

“I developed Epe, which was never part of their ‘master plan’.”

“I didn’t back Aregbesola and Bayo Osinowo’s senatorial ambitions—they’re not Lagosians.”

“I refused to use Lagos State funds to finance Osun elections.”

While Ambode has yet to formally confirm or deny the authenticity of the viral statement, the revelations have reignited conversations about the powerful forces that shape Lagos politics—and what it really costs to lead with integrity.

The post ends on a tone of quiet defiance, suggesting that Ambode may have lost political favor, but kept his conscience intact.

As reactions pour in across the country, one thing is clear: if even half of these claims are true, the politics of Lagos is far more complicated—and cutthroat—than it seems.