Bayo Onanuga’s conferment with the CON award has ignited a wave of both praise and criticism, reflecting deep divides over his role in Nigeria’s political and media landscape.
The conferment of the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) on Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has sparked a flurry of reactions across social and political circles, with congratulatory messages flowing in alongside critical commentary.
Mr. Onanuga was among several Nigerians honoured by President Tinubu during this year’s Democracy Day celebrations. The award recognizes individuals for their service to the nation across various fields.
Supporters hailed the honour as long overdue for a man they describe as a committed patriot and defender of democratic values. Lawal Ahmed (@LawalKolaapo) tweeted, “Congratulations, Mr. Bayo Onanuga… Your dedication and service to the nation are truly commendable.” Another user, @ADEDARSENAL, wrote, “Brother Bayo, congratulations on your new national honour, sir.” 
Some users took a more political tone. @EtunMount tweeted, “A former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, should in the pursuit of fairness and equity be awarded the GCON.” Another commenter, @AkileIjebu_GCON, used the moment to call for recognition of the Abiola family: “The FG should pay the family so that MKO’s labour didn’t end in vain.”
However, the honour has not been without controversy. Critics accuse Mr. Onanuga of past ethnically divisive statements and question the merit of the award. @sodiqOakinyemi asked, “Does a renowned and proud tribal bigot deserve a national honour in a multi-ethnic nation like Nigeria?” Another user, @realvictorad, described the honour as, “CON—Criminal Of Nigeria,” reflecting deeper grievances about political appointments and perceived marginalization.
Some users used the opportunity to express broader dissatisfaction with the government. @UnohUnoh126658 said, “Was that a democracy speech or a campaign speech?”
Born on June 20, 1957, in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Bayo Onanuga is a veteran journalist and media executive. A graduate of Mass Communication from the University of Lagos, he began his journalism career at ‘The Guardian’ before co-founding ‘TheNEWS’, ‘PM News’, and ‘Tempo Magazine’.
During the military era, Onanuga became known for his fierce opposition to authoritarian rule. He resigned as editor of ‘African Concord’ in 1992 rather than retract an article critical of the Ibrahim Babangida-led government. During the Abacha regime, he went into exile following harassment over his journalistic work.
He later returned and continued to play an active role in shaping media discourse in Nigeria. In 2016, he was appointed Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), and in 2023, he served as Director of Media and Publicity for the Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign before being appointed to his current advisory position.
