The poster's explanation on the other forum was that Lombardo didn't want the stress that came with the job. He's always said that one reason why the Genovese bosses have always been superior is that they have taken the position somewhat reluctantly and out of a sense of duty. Not because they really wanted it or were using it to get rich. Guys like Lombardo, Tieri, Salerno, and Gigante were already millionaires before reaching the top.