Fresh claims have emerged over alleged power blocs operating within the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following comments made by Charles Omole, author of From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari.
Speaking during an interview on State Affairs, a podcast hosted by Edmund Obilo, Omole alleged that no fewer than five different cabals currently wield influence around the presidency and shape decisions within the Federal Government.
According to him, the first group is allegedly linked to the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.
He claimed the former Speaker of the House of Representatives controls a strong political structure within the administration.
Omole also identified another alleged circle connected to Seyi Tinubu, the president’s son. He claimed some appointments within the current government were influenced by individuals close to Seyi.
“There are five cabals controlling President Tinubu’s administration. The first cabal is the one headed by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.
“The second cabal is that of the president’s son, Seyi Tinubu. I can name the Minister of Youth and a few others that were singlehandedly chosen by Seyi Tinubu. That’s why you see the Youth Minister always following Seyi.
“And then another cabal is the First Lady. She has her own sphere of influence in terms of access to the president. Then the fourth cabal are the thugs and young guys around Tinubu,” he said.
The author further claimed that President Tinubu himself heads the fifth and final power bloc within the administration, describing it as the most dominant circle influencing governance and political direction.
His remarks have since generated reactions in political circles, especially as discussions continue over the level of influence held by unelected individuals within the current administration.
The Tinubu government has repeatedly dismissed claims that powerful outsiders control decisions at the Presidency. Presidential aides have maintained that the president remains fully in charge of his government and national policies.
Since assuming office in May 2023, Tinubu’s administration has faced scrutiny over appointments, policy decisions and the growing influence of individuals believed to have direct access to the president.
