Contrary to his official statement, Ajuri Ngelale, former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, was reportedly dismissed from his role, rather than resigning, due to a family health situation.
Sources close to the presidency revealed that Ngelale’s departure stemmed from a long-running feud with Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy. The tension between them has been ongoing since the start of the Tinubu administration.
Known for his eloquence, Ngelale clashed with Onanuga over overlapping responsibilities, which led to confusion within the civil service. Despite multiple interventions, Ngelale declined to address the conflict, culminating in his dismissal.
Insiders further stated that Ngelale’s influence was tied to his connections with Seyi Tinubu, the President’s son, and Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff. However, his strained relationships within the administration ultimately led to his exit.
Efforts to reach both Ngelale and Onanuga for comments were unsuccessful, and the presidency has not yet confirmed the exact reasons for Ngelale’s departure.
A Public Face-Saving Statement
In a memo addressed to the Chief of Staff, Ngelale claimed he was taking an indefinite leave due to urgent family health issues, pausing his duties as Special Adviser and Chair of various committees. He expressed his intention to return when circumstances allowed.
However, sources within the presidency maintain that his exit was a result of a power struggle with Onanuga.
Tensions with Onanuga
Following Bola Tinubu’s 2023 election, Ngelale reportedly did not get along with Onanuga. Having served under Buhari as a senior adviser, Ngelale perceived himself as Onanuga’s superior, leading to tensions. Despite their different titles, civil servants were often confused by the overlap in their duties.
Ngelale’s standing was bolstered by his close relationship with Seyi Tinubu and Gbajabiamila, though his refusal to engage in peace talks with Onanuga, despite several attempts by colleagues, played a role in his downfall.
Blocking Onanuga’s Access
Despite being formally appointed in October 2023, Onanuga reportedly struggled to secure an office, initially sharing space with another adviser. Sources indicated that Ngelale used his influence to hinder Onanuga’s access to resources.
Gaining Tinubu’s Favor
Ngelale’s rise to power was facilitated by his relationship with Seyi Tinubu. During the 2023 campaign, Ngelale secured a high-profile interview for Tinubu on CNN, which significantly boosted his standing within the Tinubu camp.
The Breaking Point
Staff within the presidency noted that the rivalry between Ngelale and Onanuga negatively affected the communication strategies of the administration. Ngelale’s directive to block statements from Onanuga without his approval further deepened the rift.
As his relationship with the media and journalists soured, sources say Ngelale’s influence began to wane, eventually leading to his removal.
Ngelale and Onanuga Decline Comment
Despite efforts to reach out, neither Ngelale nor Onanuga responded to inquiries about the situation.
Source : FIJ
