Presidency Knocks Aregbesola, Defends Tinubu’s Reforms

Also Read

 

The Presidency has strongly criticised former Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola, over his recent remarks against President Bola Tinubu, describing his comments as misleading and politically motivated.

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, dismissed the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a platform for “desperate politicians” lacking a clear national agenda.

Onanuga’s reaction followed Aregbesola’s criticism of the administration during the party’s National Convention in Abuja, where the former minister reportedly described the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda as a “classic scam” and called on the president to resign.

Responding via his X handle, Onanuga accused Aregbesola of echoing opposition narratives and attempting to distort the government’s performance.

He further criticised Aregbesola’s record in public office, stating that his eight-year tenure as governor of Osun State was marked by hardship, including prolonged salary delays for civil servants and difficulties faced by pensioners.

Onanuga also faulted Aregbesola’s time as Minister of Interior, claiming that the process of obtaining Nigerian passports became increasingly difficult under his watch, while correctional facilities experienced security breaches, including the Kuje prison escape.

“It is ironic that someone who failed to secure correctional centres now seeks to lecture others on insecurity,” Onanuga said.

Defending the Tinubu administration, the presidential aide acknowledged that some reforms have had unintended effects but noted that measures such as cash transfers and support for small businesses have been introduced to cushion the impact.

He added that key economic indicators were showing improvement, citing growth in GDP, stronger foreign reserves, and a positive outlook in the stock market.

Onanuga maintained that the Renewed Hope Agenda remains a credible policy direction and not the “scam” alleged by Aregbesola.