Tinubu’s Spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, Criticised for Mocking Buhari’s Supporters During National Mourning
A fresh wave of political controversy has emerged following a social media post by Bayo Onanuga, spokesperson to President Bola Tinubu, targeting supporters of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, just days after his death.
As Nigerians mourn the passing of Buhari, an X user, @DeeOneAyekooto, posted a nostalgic campaign video of the late president, calling it an “unforgettable moment.” Rather than join in the tribute, Onanuga used the opportunity to dispute claims that Buhari’s personal popularity delivered his presidential victories in 2015 and 2019.
“Here’s a video to refresh the memory of those who falsely claimed Buhari’s 12 million votes alone gave him the presidency,” Onanuga wrote, implying that Bola Tinubu’s political alliance played a decisive role in Buhari’s success.
His post contradicted recent remarks by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, who had credited Buhari’s personal integrity for his electoral win. Mustapha downplayed the political merger that brought Tinubu and Buhari together, attributing just 20% of the 2015 votes to that alliance.
Onanuga’s post, viewed as disrespectful and untimely, sparked criticism online. It followed an earlier harsh tribute from Sam Omatseye, a close ally of Tinubu, who described Buhari as a “selfish, hypocritical serial loser.”
Prominent activist Deji Adeyanju condemned Onanuga’s post as “insensitive and immature,” while others called out the lack of respect shown during a time of national mourning. “He didn’t even wait for Buhari to be buried,” one user wrote, highlighting the political divide and apparent lack of loyalty in Tinubu’s camp.
Paul Ibe, spokesperson to Atiku Abubakar, also weighed in, saying the post reflected poorly on the current administration’s sense of decorum.
The incident has ignited widespread debate about political loyalty, legacy, and the tone of public discourse following the death of a national leader.
