Presidential spokesmen, Bayo Onanuga, and Ajuri Ngelale contradicted each other on the speech of President Bola Tinubu’s first anniversary in office.

The president who took his oath of office on May 29, 2023, will clock on year in office, on Wednesday.

In commemoration of the first anniversary, both spokesmen issued contradictory statements.

While Onanuga said Tinubu was breaking away from the tradition of nationwide broadcast, but would address a joint session of the National Assembly, Ngelale described the statement as false.

“In furtherance of his commitment to delivering good governance, President Bola Tinubu has embarked on the inauguration of strategic projects across the country.”

“More transformative projects will be inaugurated by President Tinubu’s administration for the benefit of all Nigerians.

“In view of public commentary concerning the President delivering a speech before a Joint Sitting of the National Assembly tomorrow, May 29, 2024, it is important to state that this information is false and unauthorized as the Office of the President was not involved in the planning of the event,” Ngelale’s statement read.

Earlier, Onanuga had said, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not make a broadcast to the nation on Wednesday to celebrate his first anniversary as the leader of Nigeria.

“Instead, the President will address a joint session of the National Assembly, which has lined up a programme to commemorate 25 years of the nation’s democratic journey at both the executive and legislative levels.

“President Tinubu’s speech will dwell on the achievements of his administration and Nigeria’s democracy since the military ceded power in 1999.

“Former Senate President, Senator David Mark, former speaker of the House of Representatives and now President Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila are all lined up to address the parliament.

“Also lined up to speak is the former military ruler, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who handed over power to civilian administration in 1999.

“At the end of the speeches, President Tinubu will commission the National Assembly Library and Resource Center, now to be known as Bola Ahmed Tinubu Building.”

It is unclear why both men gave contradictory account of such an important event. (Text: Daily Trust, but headline rejigged)

Update news