Tinubu Reportedly Distances Longtime Ally Eludoyin Amid NNPC Turmoil

Abuja – In a dramatic turn of events that has gripped the political elite, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is said to have distanced himself from his longtime ally and confidant, Prince Dapo Eludoyin, as controversy deepens around the embattled Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), Bayo Ojulari.

According to insider sources, the President’s cold shoulder towards Eludoyin stems from a series of missteps and allegations surrounding Ojulari, who is facing scrutiny over what critics describe as poor judgment and questionable political alignments.

Ojulari first came under fire over his ill-timed NNPC executive retreat in Kigali, Rwanda, which drew criticism given the country’s pressing economic challenges. However, the pressure mounted further following unconfirmed reports that he allegedly facilitated travel arrangements for key opposition figures, using NNPC aviation contracts in a manner seen by some as politically subversive.

What appears to have drawn President Tinubu’s ire even more is the fact that Ojulari was reportedly nominated for the top NNPC role on the strong recommendation of Prince Eludoyin. Sources within Aso Rock suggest the President now feels blindsided, particularly after revelations of Ojulari’s alleged ties to businessman Bashir Abdulahi Haske — a figure currently under investigation over alleged fraud and corruption.

Observers say Tinubu’s silence and visible detachment from Eludoyin signal a deep sense of disappointment. One senior official described the fallout as “a classic case of political self-preservation,” suggesting that the President may be trying to shield his administration from further reputational damage.

Political analysts note that while Tinubu is known for rewarding loyalty, he is equally swift to reposition when allies become political liabilities.

“This may be more of a strategic retreat than a permanent fallout,” said one source familiar with the situation. “The President is pragmatic — he distances himself when necessary but rarely closes the door completely.”

As Abuja’s political circles continue to buzz, questions remain: Is Eludoyin’s influence within the Tinubu camp permanently diminished? Will Ojulari survive the mounting pressure? Or is this the beginning of a broader shake-up within the nation’s oil sector?

What is clear, however, is that the episode has sent ripples through the upper ranks of government, laying bare the high-stakes calculations and shifting alliances that define Nigeria’s political theatre.