Tinubu’s Top Aide Resigns, Cites Reasons

Aliyu Audu has resigned from his role as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Bola Tinubu, citing concerns over what he described as attempts by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to turn Nigeria into a one-party state.

Audu’s resignation letter, dated June 8, 2025, was submitted to the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila. In the letter, Audu formally announced his immediate resignation from the role.

In a statement released alongside the letter, Audu clarified that his decision was driven by conscience, not rebellion. He emphasized his refusal to be used, directly or indirectly, as a tool to suppress opposition voices or undermine democratic plurality.

“Though I do not align with the PDP, I refuse to be used as an instrument to reduce Nigeria to a one-party state,” he wrote. “That would be a betrayal of both divine favor and democratic principle.”

Audu criticized what he sees as the APC’s increasing intolerance for dissent, warning that such political dominance is not only a democratic threat but also morally and spiritually reckless. He likened the current situation to the political atmosphere of 2003 under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, stating that silencing opposition is not leadership, but regression.

“And it runs contrary to the divine order, which upholds freedom of choice and diversity of thought,” he added. “Let us build a Nigeria where our strength lies not in uniformity, but in the maturity to compete with ideas, vision, and integrity.”

While distancing himself from the political direction of the APC, particularly the perceived alliance between President Tinubu and Nyesom Wike, Audu reiterated his continued support for some aspects of the administration, particularly in economic reforms. However, he expressed disappointment in what he described as a departure from the progressive and democratic ideals that once defined the party.

In a lighter tone, Audu concluded his statement by acknowledging that political debates would continue. “That does not mean our *gbas gbos* will seize o. We still here for the attacks and counter attacks. Oya Agbadorians over to you.”