There are indications that Aliyu Audu, the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Public Affairs, has officially resigned, in protests over what he described as plans to turn Nigeria into a one party State
It was gathered that Audu had expressed concerns over what he described as an emerging plans to turn Nigeria into a one-party state.
Audu said his resignation is with immediately effect according to a letter dated June 8, 2025, and submitted through Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Tinubu.
In a statement released shortly after, he explained that his decision stemmed from deep personal conviction and a growing discomfort with the political direction of the current administration.
He however, assured the Tinubu’s administration of continued to support ongoing economic reforms championed by the Tinubu-led government, but added that ” I cannot, in good conscience, remain in an administration I believe is stifling the nation’s democratic space.
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“I am not defecting to the PDP or any other opposition party,” Audu clarified, “but I also cannot lend my name to efforts that seem determined to crush alternative political voices.”
The former presidential aide lamented what he described as troubling political realignments and decisions that appear aimed at consolidating power within a single dominant party. He argued that such moves run contrary to Nigeria’s democratic principles and could potentially roll back decades of political progress.
“True leadership,” he stated, “encourages the free contest of ideas, diversity of thought, and a fair playing field for all political actors — not the silencing or weakening of opposition.”
He insisted that his resignation was not an act of rebellion, describing it as a necessary step driven by a sense of duty and moral responsibility.
He warned that Nigeria’s history has repeatedly shown the dangers of narrowing its political space, and insisted that current trends must be reversed for democracy to thrive.
Despite stepping down from office, Audu emphasised that he remains committed to contributing to the national discourse and political debates, even from outside the corridors of power.
Audu expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve in his administration, describing the experience as an honour and privilege.
“I remain deeply grateful to you, Mr. President, for the opportunity to serve my fatherland under your visionary leadership,” Audu wrote. “It has been an honour to contribute to the public communication efforts of this administration.”
He also acknowledged Ajuri Ngelale, the former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, for nominating him for the role.
