Presidency knocks Aregbesola, defends Tinubu’s economic reforms

By Lateef Ibrahim

The Presidency has launched a strong rebuttal against criticisms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by former Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola, describing his remarks as misleading and politically motivated.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in a reaction dismissed the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a coalition of politicians lacking a coherent national vision.
Onanuga was responding to Aregbesola’s comments at the party’s national convention in Abuja, where the former minister reportedly described the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda as a “scam” and called for Tinubu’s resignation.
In a post on his X handle, the presidential aide accused Aregbesola of echoing opposition narratives and attempting to misrepresent the government’s performance, insisting that the ADC itself lacks credibility.
He further criticised Aregbesola’s record in office, alleging that his tenure as governor of Osun State was marked by economic hardship, including unpaid salaries and pension challenges.
Onanuga also faulted his time as Minister of Interior, citing difficulties in passport processing and security lapses in correctional facilities, including prison breaks.
Describing Aregbesola’s comments on insecurity as ironic, Onanuga argued that the former minister lacked the moral standing to criticise the current administration.
Defending the Tinubu government, he acknowledged that ongoing reforms have posed challenges but maintained that several intervention measures had been introduced to cushion their effects, including support for small businesses and cash transfers.
He added that key economic indicators were showing signs of improvement, pointing to growth in GDP, stronger foreign reserves, and increased investor confidence as evidence that the administration’s policies were yielding results.
Onanuga concluded by insisting that the Renewed Hope Agenda remains a credible framework for Nigeria’s economic recovery, contrary to claims by opposition figures.