Ajuri Ngelale Fired from Tinubu’s Cabinet Amid Power Struggle, FIJ Reveals

Ajuri Ngelale, renowned for his eloquent broadcasting skills, recently announced his resignation as the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Publicity, citing pressing medical issues within his family. However, the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) has uncovered that his resignation might not be as straightforward as it seems.

According to sources within the presidency, Ngelale’s departure was not voluntary. Instead, it was the culmination of a power struggle with Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy. Despite Ngelale’s claims of stepping down to address family health concerns, insiders revealed that he was actually dismissed from his position but was allowed to publicly resign as a face-saving measure after pleading for a dignified exit.

The tension between Ngelale and Onanuga reportedly began soon after Tinubu’s election victory, with Ngelale believing he outranked Onanuga due to his earlier experience in government. This rivalry created confusion among civil servants and disrupted the administration’s communication strategy.

The situation worsened when Ngelale, who had the backing of key figures such as Tinubu’s son Seyi and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, began to assert control over the media strategy, allegedly sidelining Onanuga. This strained relationship, coupled with Ngelale’s reportedly difficult attitude toward journalists and editors, eventually led to his fall from favor.

Efforts by senior government officials to mediate the conflict were unsuccessful, with Ngelale often refusing to participate in peace talks. His refusal to collaborate with Onanuga, who was seen as more open to reconciliation, ultimately sealed his fate.

Attempts by FIJ to reach Ngelale and Onanuga for comments were unsuccessful.

Credit: Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ).