Bola Tinubu's Age: Unraveling the Chronological Controversy Surrounding Nigeria's President

As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu commemorates another year, the discourse surrounding his age resurfaces, intertwining personal narratives, public records, and political discourse. Born on March 29, 1952, according to his official statements, Tinubu's age has been a subject of public scrutiny and debate over the years. 

Tinubu's journey from his early days to the pinnacle of Nigerian politics is marked by significant milestones. He asserts that his birthdate is March 29, 1952, a detail he has consistently maintained. Addressing the British Royal Institute at Chatham House in December 2022, Tinubu stated, "At the time of birth, I was dated March 29, 1952... My record is consistent in the school — in the university question... The record is there. The transcript is there showing March 1952."  

Despite his assertions, discrepancies have fueled public debate. In 2021, Wikipedia temporarily locked Tinubu's page due to "persistent vandalism," as users repeatedly altered his birth year between 1942 and 1952. Further complicating matters, some critics have pointed to documents suggesting a birth year of 1954. For instance, Reno Omokri, a former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, highlighted that transcripts from Chicago State University indicated Tinubu's birthdate as March 29, 1954.  

Tinubu has addressed these inconsistencies by emphasizing the authenticity of his academic records. He mentioned receiving a replacement degree certificate from Chicago State University and highlighted his professional trajectory, stating, "Deloitte trained me as an accountant. Mobil Oil has attested to my record. I got to the pinnacle of my career in the private sector."  

Supporters have also weighed in on the controversy. Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker of the House of Representatives, remarked at a Lagos rally in November 2022, "They will ask you how old he is. Tell them he is the age his mother said he is. And if they are in doubt of his age, tell them go and meet his mother to reconfirm." This statement, however, was met with irony, given that Tinubu's mother, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, passed away in 2013.  

The age debate is further compounded by legal proceedings. In September 2022, a suit was filed seeking the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to release Tinubu's personal information from his 1999 and 2003 governorship candidacies. The case, aimed at clarifying discrepancies in his academic records and age, was adjourned to October 12 of that year.  

As President Tinubu celebrates his birthday, the discussions surrounding his age persist, reflecting broader conversations about transparency and accountability in public service. While he maintains a birth year of 1952, the varying records and ongoing debates underscore the complexities of personal histories within the public sphere.