Presidency Defends Tinubu, Accuses Tokunbo Pearse of Attacking President Despite Past Support

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, has defended the president amid fresh criticism involving Tokunbo Pearse, describing the controversy as a personal matter rooted in their past relationship.

According to a statement released on his X handle on November 10, 2026, Onanuga shared a lengthy account attributed to Professor Adebayo Williams, who expressed disappointment over Pearse’s alleged attacks on President Tinubu.

Williams said he was particularly hurt by the development because he was the person who introduced Pearse to Tinubu and was aware of the support the president had given him over the years.

According to the professor, he and Pearse became close friends while studying at the University of Sheffield in the United Kingdom between 1981 and 1982.

He further recalled that in 2003, he accompanied Tinubu on a visit to Chicago State University, the president’s alma mater, where Tinubu reportedly received a warm welcome from university officials.

Williams argued that the reception and recognition Tinubu received during the visit were inconsistent with allegations questioning his academic background.

The professor also criticised Pearse, suggesting that his recent statements were driven by desperation and warning him against crossing what he described as certain personal boundaries.

He added that he had deliberately remained silent despite what he called repeated attacks against Tinubu, but felt compelled to speak because of their longstanding friendship.

Williams warned that he would continue to keep certain private matters confidential unless Pearse crossed another line.

The statement has added another dimension to the ongoing political exchanges surrounding President Bola Tinubu and Tokunbo Pearse.

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