Presidency Denies Claims of Tinubu Marginalizing ‘Buhari Boys’

Presidency Denies Claims of Tinubu Marginalizing ‘Buhari Boys

The Presidency has dismissed speculations that President Bola Tinubu is deliberately excluding loyalists of former President Muhammadu Buhari from his administration.

Speaking on the Mic On podcast hosted by Seun Okinbaloye, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, refuted claims that the president has sidelined the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) bloc of the All Progressives Congress (APC) — commonly referred to as the “Buhari boys” — in favor of close allies from Lagos.

Dare clarified that assembling a presidential cabinet falls squarely within the constitutional authority of the incumbent president.

When a new government comes in, it has the constitutional right to build its own cabinet. The first requirement is that the appointee must be a Nigerian — not whether they are a Tinubu or Buhari loyalist,” he said.

Okinbaloye, however, pointed out that key economic positions appear to be held predominantly by individuals closely associated with Tinubu. In response, Dare explained that it is natural for a leader to surround himself with trusted allies, particularly those who have been part of his political journey.

As a leader, it is natural to appoint trusted allies to key positions. President Tinubu is no different — he has relied on people who have served with him over the years. But that doesn’t mean others are being intentionally excluded,” he added.

Dare concluded by underscoring that every government official takes an oath to uphold the Nigerian constitution and serve the people — not any individual or predecessor.

The remarks come amid growing internal murmurs within the APC over perceived power shifts and influence distribution in Tinubu’s government since taking office.