Reactions are pouring in after the announcement that Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser on Media & Publicity to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has taken an indefinite leave of absence.
Daily Trust reported that Ajuri, via a statement on his Facebook page on Saturday, informed the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, of his decision, citing health issues concerning his immediate family.
The statement read: “On Friday, I submitted a memo to the Chief of Staff informing my office that I am proceeding on an indefinite leave of absence to address pressing medical matters affecting my nuclear family.
“While I recognize that the ship of state waits for no one, this difficult decision—temporarily pausing my role as Special Adviser on Media & Publicity, Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action, and Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen—came after consultations with my family as we faced a worsening medical situation at home.
“I hope to resume my duties when health and time allow. In the meantime, I kindly request privacy for my family during this period.”
Following this announcement, Nigerians took to social media to express their opinions.
On X (formerly Twitter), Senator Shehu Sani (@ShehuSani) posted: “Ajuri can now relax, sleep soundly, eat well, switch off his phone, and maybe gain a few pounds.”
Jaafar Jaafar (@JaafarSJaafar) commented: “Ajuri Ngelale is the first presidential spokesperson whose appearance and accent—not PR expertise—landed him the role. He was brought in to enhance the president’s image, but his overconfidence eventually clashed with other key figures around the president.”
Queen Bee (@QueenBee_): “Perhaps he wasn’t lying enough, and Onanuga had to take over the full lying responsibilities.”
Safety Cabal (@gabriel_bolatit): “We won’t really miss him, except maybe for appointment announcements.”
FEJIRO (@realFejiro) wrote: “It’s no surprise Ajuri Ngelale has resigned. Defending someone like Tinubu is no easy task. You’d have to throw integrity and logic out the window. Best of luck to Ajuri!”
Ifeanyi Ejechi (@ifeanyi_ej53035): “What does ‘indefinite leave of absence’ even mean? Oh, I get it—it’s a polite way of saying he was eased out without being pushed.”
Adamu Ibrahim Aliyu (@hrh_aia): “I respect Ajuri for being one of the few spokespersons who care about the citizens, carefully choosing his words. Wishing him all the best.”
Dr Croc (@MgajiInnocent): “Ajuri Ngelale is just 37, but he has accomplished so much. Initially, his voice was captivating, but over time, the charm faded, and the lies became clear. Speaking as an APC member.”
Emma ik Umeh (@emmaikumeh): “Ajuri Ngelale is tired of lying to Nigerians. It’s not easy defending this administration.”
Shafi’i Hamidu (@shafiihamidu): “Tinubu’s government likely wore Ajuri down. He’s the best spokesperson this administration has had, always backing his statements with facts. Sad to see him leave.”
Meanwhile, users on Facebook also shared their views.
Mazi Ifeanyi Nweze remarked: “His conscience couldn’t let him keep defending a failing president. He wants to distance himself from this mess of governance. Smart move, he can still restore his dignity.”
Hamma S. Idi said: “I commend this young man for his courage, despite the perks he enjoyed. Bravo to him.”
Okpueze Emerueh added: “Good for him. It’s tough defending an inept government. Let the Lagos boys take over as usual.”
Muhammad Gaddafi Rabiu: “The top PR guy has stepped down. He must be exhausted from the incompetence. Let’s hope his former boss follows suit soon.”
Source: Daily Trust
