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Tunde Onakoya has defended his recent visit to President Tinubu, insisting it was about national recognition, not political support. He stressed his commitment to nonpartisan advocacy for street children and clarified that Chess in Slums Africa is a cognitive development initiative, not a reaction to bad governance.
  • Onakoya said meeting Tinubu was about national recognition, not political allegiance.
  • Rejected comparisons to war-crime-affiliated honourees.
  • Said Chess in Slums isn’t a charity but a tool for education.
  • The organisation has never received international grants.
  • Works with Lagos State to rehabilitate street children.
Tunde Onakoya’s statement reflects the delicate space public figures must navigate in Nigeria’s heated political environment. By distancing himself from partisan politics, he reinforces the integrity of his decade-long work with disadvantaged youth. His emphasis on education, not optics, suggests a long-term vision beyond social media perceptions.

Onakoya insists that recognition from leaders does not equate to endorsement. As he pushes for structural change through education, he says: “I live for the audience of one.”