“Like Lai Mohammed, Like Onanuga?” Critics Accuse Presidential Spokesman of Rewriting Tinubu’s Viral Electricity Promise

Fresh controversy has erupted after presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga dismissed claims that President Bola Tinubu promised Nigerians they should not vote for him for a second term if he failed to deliver stable electricity within four years.
The clarification has sparked backlash from critics, who point to a widely circulated video from the 2023 campaign period in which Tinubu stated: “If I don’t give you constant electricity in four years, and I come back for a second term, don’t vote for me.”
Opponents of the administration argue that the statement was clear and unambiguous, accusing the Presidency of attempting to reinterpret or downplay the President’s campaign pledge amid continued concerns over electricity supply across the country.
The debate has also revived comparisons between Onanuga and former presidential spokesman Lai Mohammed, both of whom have frequently faced criticism from political opponents over their defence of government policies and public statements.
While the Presidency insists that Tinubu’s remarks have been taken out of context and that significant reforms are underway in the power sector, critics maintain that Nigerians should judge the administration based on the President’s own words and the realities of electricity supply nationwide.
As the 2027 political conversation gradually gathers momentum, the controversy highlights the growing scrutiny of campaign promises and the public’s expectations for accountability in governance.
Alternative headline:
Viral Video Resurfaces as Critics Challenge Onanuga’s Denial of Tinubu’s ‘Don’t Vote for Me’ Electricity Pledge