President Bola Tinubu, who was sworn into office on May 29, 2023, has faced considerable backlash and criticism over his economic policies, which his government has consistently defended in the face of mounting opposition.

The president has not only faced criticism from members of the opposition but has also lost key allies to their camp, most notably the immediate past governor of Kaduna state, Nasir El-Rufai, who now plays a leading role in the coalition movement campaigning against Tinubu’s bid for a second term.

On the other hand, the president has gained a significant number of opposition members into his camp, including Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Amid the political buildup ahead of the 2027 general election, the president has lost three presidential aides, who have resigned from his government for various reasons, many of which have been linked to politics.

These are those media aides who have dumped the presidency:

Ajuri Ngelale

Tinubu's special adviser on media and publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, who also served as the president's official spokesperson, announced his decision to go on indefinite leave. This was disclosed in a memo received at the office of the chief of staff to the president, Femi Gbajabiamila, on Saturday, September 7, 2024.

Ngelale announced that he is taking an indefinite leave of absence due to a worsening medical situation affecting his immediate family. Ngelale said he made this difficult decision after consulting with his family and acknowledged that the timing is unfortunate, but his family's health takes priority.

Hakeem Baba-Ahmed

Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, President Bola Tinubu's political adviser, tendered his resignation from the administration. This was confirmed by credible sources within the presidency on Thursday, April 3, adding that Baba-Ahmed, the former spokesperson of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), tendered his resignation from Tinubu's government two weeks ago.

The presidential appointee cited that it was a personal issue. However, he had recently criticised Tinubu's government and craved for stronger opposition to challenge the administration.

Aliyu Audu

Aliyu Audu, former President Bola Tinubu's senior special adviser on public affairs, said he dumped the presidency so that he could work against the re-election of the president in 2027. His resignation letter was dated Sunday, June 8.