Confusion As Presidential Spokesmen Issue Contradictory Statements On First Anniversary

By Ayodele Oni

Ajuri: Onanuga’s statement is false and unauthorised

Conflicting report on President Bola Tinubu’s activities to commemorate first anniversary of the administration emanating from his two spokesmen may have sparked confusion between the two image makers.

Ajuri Ngelale, special adviser, media and publicity to the president clarified that presidency has nothing to do with the planned 25th celebration of democracy being packaged by the national assembly.

Bayo Onanuga, also special adviser, media and publicity, had stated in another release that the president will not make any nationwide broadcast, but will address a joint session of the national assembly.

Ngelale stated that ‘In furtherance of his commitment to delivering good governance, President Bola Tinubu has embarked on the inauguration of strategic projects across the country.

“More transformative projects will be inaugurated by President Tinubu’s administration for the benefit of all Nigerians.

“In view of public commentary concerning the President delivering a speech before a Joint Sitting of the National Assembly tomorrow, May 29, 2024, it is important to state that this information is false and unauthorized as the Office of the President was not involved in the planning of the event.”

Onanuga, had earlier released that “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not make  a  broadcast to the nation on Wednesday to celebrate his first anniversary as the leader of Nigeria.

“Instead, the President will address a joint session of the National Assembly, which has lined up a programme to commemorate 25 years of the nation’s democratic journey at both the executive and legislative levels.

“President Tinubu’s speech  will dwell on the achievements of his administration and Nigeria’s democracy since the military ceded power in 1999.

“Former Senate President, Senator David Mark, former speaker of the House of Representatives and now President Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila are all lined up to address the parliament.

“Also lined up to speak is the former military ruler, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who handed over power to civilian administration in 1999.

“At the end of the speeches,  President Tinubu will commission the National Assembly Library and  Resource Center, now to be known as Bola Ahmed Tinubu Building.”