In a recent episode of the podcast State Affairs, hosted by Edmund Obilo, author Charles Omole—known for penning From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari—dropped a bombshell about the inner workings of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. According to Omole, no fewer than five distinct power blocs are pulling the strings behind the scenes, each with its own sphere of influence.
Omole identified the first cabal as the group led by Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the President. The second cabal revolves around Seyi Tinubu, the president’s son, who Omole claims has handpicked key officials, including the Minister of Youth. He pointed out that this explains why the Youth Minister is constantly seen trailing Seyi Tinubu.
The third cabal, Omole said, is headed by First Lady Remi Tinubu, who enjoys her own independent access to the president. The fourth cabal consists of young associates and individuals Omole described as “thugs” who surround Tinubu. Finally, the fifth cabal is none other than Tinubu himself, who Omole suggests operates his own inner circle of influence.
This revelation sheds light on the complex power dynamics at play within the current administration, suggesting that governance is not solely in the hands of elected officials but also shaped by influential figures both inside and outside the formal structure of government.