“‘Office of the President’s Son’ Appears on Official Letter: Nigerians Question Rising Informal Power Structures in Aso Rock”
By Passman Akpos
A letter addressed to “Mr. Seyi Tinubu, Office of the President’s Son, Aso Rock Presidential Villa” has ignited public debate over the growing perception that unofficial power centres may be emerging within the Nigerian Presidency—structures that do not exist in the constitution but appear to wield significant influence.
The letter, written by 33-year-old ICT specialist and governance professional Prince Godwin Oloruntoba, requested Seyi Tinubu’s support in securing a federal appointment as a Special Assistant under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
But it was not the content of the letter that raised eyebrows — it was the address.
Nigerians Ask: “When Did Nigeria Establish an Office of the President’s Son?”
The phrase “Office of the President’s Son” has sparked intense public scrutiny, with many citizens questioning whether such a designation exists officially, who authorized it, and what level of influence it implies.
Although Seyi Tinubu holds no constitutionally recognized position in government, the letter suggests that individuals seeking public office see him as a key gatekeeper to federal appointments.
Governance analysts say the development raises legitimate concerns about the emergence of informal power channels within Aso Rock that operate outside public oversight.
The Letter That Set Off the Debate
In his appeal, Oloruntoba praised Seyi Tinubu’s involvement in youth development and sought his mentorship in obtaining one of three high-tech advisory roles:
Special Adviser on Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Digital Technologies
Special Adviser on Digital Infrastructure & Connectivity
Special Adviser on Digital Trade, E-Commerce & Cryptocurrency
He described these fields as “critical to Nigeria’s future competitiveness,” while noting his Master’s degree and six years in public service.
But beyond his qualifications, the letter has amplified longstanding concerns about the centralization of influence around the President’s family.
A Growing Pattern or a One-Off Case?
This is not the first time Nigerians have questioned the visibility and influence of relatives of top office holders. However, the appearance of what seems to be an officially recognized ‘Office of the President’s Son’ has deepened worries about transparency and access to power within the Villa.
Public policy observers note that such informal structures, if left unchecked, blur the lines between elected authority and family proximity — a trend critics argue undermines accountability and weakens trust in governance.
Citizens Call for Clarity
The Presidency has not issued any statement clarifying whether such an office exists or whether it is simply a matter of individuals assigning titles informally out of perception.
However, public interest groups are urging the administration to clarify the official status — if any — of the President’s relatives in government dealings, warning that ambiguity may fuel concerns about nepotism and unequal access to national opportunities.
A National conversation emerges
The viral letter has now opened a wider discussion beyond Oloruntoba’s request:Who truly holds influence in Aso Rock — official institutions or invisible networks?What mechanisms exist to ensure that public appointments follow due process, not informal channels?
As Nigerians continue to demand answers, one thing is clear:The appearance of an “Office of the President’s Son” has triggered a national call for vigilance, transparency, and clearer boundaries in governance.
