Ajuri Ngelale, known for his eloquent public speaking and role as Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to President Bola Tinubu, did not step down from his position due to a family medical issue, as he publicly claimed. According to an investigation by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), Ngelale was actually dismissed by the presidency and was allowed to resign as a face-saving measure.
On Saturday, September 7, 2024, Ngelale made an announcement, stating he was resigning to deal with a family health emergency. However, sources close to the presidency revealed that his resignation was a cover for his dismissal, following his pleas to avoid public embarrassment.
Ngelale, who also served as Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action, mentioned in his resignation memo that he was taking an indefinite leave of absence to focus on pressing family health matters. He asked for privacy and expressed hope to return to public service in the future. However, FIJ’s investigation uncovered that his departure was tied to a long-standing power struggle with Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy.
Since Bola Tinubu’s election as president in 2023, tensions between Ngelale and Onanuga had been growing. Ngelale, who had been appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019, reportedly saw himself as senior to Onanuga. Both men, however, held the same rank, which led to confusion and friction within the presidential media team.
FIJ’s sources revealed that Ngelale’s dismissal had already been decided days earlier, but he was granted the opportunity to resign to avoid public embarrassment. His influence within the presidency was bolstered by his close relationships with Seyi Tinubu, the president’s son, and Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff. Despite these connections, the ongoing conflict with Onanuga eventually led to his removal.
The investigation also highlighted Onanuga’s difficulties in securing an office space within the presidency, allegedly due to Ngelale’s influence. Although Onanuga was formally appointed in October 2023, he did not have his own office for months, which added to the tension between the two advisers.
Ngelale’s deteriorating relationship with journalists also played a role in his dismissal. He was reportedly seen as dismissive and arrogant by members of the press, further complicating the administration’s communication strategy. Sources suggested that Ngelale’s strained relationship with the media, combined with his feud with Onanuga, hindered the government’s ability to promote its policies effectively.
Attempts to contact both Ngelale and Onanuga for comments were unsuccessful, as neither responded to calls or messages. While Ngelale’s resignation was initially presented as a personal decision, investigation reveals deeper political conflicts within the president’s media team as the real reason behind his departure.
