President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, did not resign from his position to manage a “vexatious medical situation” in his family, as he initially claimed.
According to the Foundation of Investigative Journalism (FIJ), sources within the presidency disclosed that Ngelale was dismissed, but was allowed to publicly announce his resignation after requesting a more dignified exit.
Ngelale, who also held the role of Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action, surprised Nigerians with his sudden resignation on Saturday, citing “medical matters presently affecting my immediate, nuclear family.”
In his statement, Ngelale explained: “On Friday, I submitted a memo to the Chief of Staff to the President informing my office that I am proceeding on an indefinite leave of absence to frontally deal with medical matters presently affecting my immediate, nuclear family. This agonizing decision was taken after significant consultations with my family over the past several days as a vexatious medical situation has worsened at home.”
However, sources from the presidency have revealed that Ngelale’s departure was actually due to a power struggle with Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy. Insiders stated that tensions between Ngelale and Onanuga, which began after President Tinubu’s election in 2023, had reached a breaking point.
The feud reportedly stemmed from Ngelale’s perceived superiority, as he was appointed in 2019 by then-President Muhammadu Buhari and believed his role outranked Onanuga’s. The conflicting roles led to confusion among civil servants, further exacerbating tensions.
“Ngelale believed he was untouchable due to his backing from the president’s son, Seyi Tinubu, and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila,” an insider disclosed. “He was fired and began pleading for the opportunity to resign to avoid public embarrassment.”
Despite attempts by various government officials to mediate the dispute, Ngelale’s refusal to engage in peace talks and his insistence on maintaining control over communications led to further conflict. This strained relationship, coupled with Ngelale’s contentious interactions with the media, ultimately eroded his standing within the presidency.
Efforts to obtain comments from both Ngelale and Onanuga were unsuccessful, as they did not respond to calls or messages.
