The Nigerian media landscape was stirred this Sunday evening when celebrated singer Timi Dakolo took to social media to call out a prominent figure in the Presidency: Otega Ogra, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to President Bola Tinubu on Digital Engagement, Strategy, and New Media. The issue at hand is an alleged unpaid job performed by the singer, leading to a major public confrontation that transcends the usual celebrity gossip.
The “Great Nation” crooner chose the highly visible platform of X (formerly Twitter) to air his grievance, tagging Otega Ogra directly in a concise but pointed message. Timi Dakolo confirmed that a professional transaction had taken place, stressing that he had fulfilled his end of the contract. His post read: “Mr @otegaogra please pick your calls. I did my job.”
This direct public appeal—or call-out—was necessitated, according to the singer, by the aide’s persistent refusal to answer his calls. By bringing the matter into the public sphere, Timi Dakolo forced a conversation about accountability that an official in the current administration cannot easily ignore.
While Timi Dakolo was clear about the delinquency, he stopped short of detailing the specific nature of the work performed or the exact amount of the outstanding payment. However, given the profile of Otega Ogra as President Tinubu’s aide in digital and new media, speculation is rife: was the job related to a government campaign or event? The SSA’s portfolio often includes high-profile public engagements and communications.
Whether the transaction was personal or official, the public non-payment has raised eyebrows and sparked conversations about integrity in public service. The incident also highlights a long-standing issue within Nigeria’s creative industry, where professionals often face delayed or denied payments even when the clients involved are highly placed individuals.
The music star’s decision to go public ensures that the issue of the Timi Dakolo Otega Ogra payment dispute will remain a dominant talking point until a resolution is reached. All eyes are now on the Presidential aide for his response and possible clarification of the circumstances surrounding the alleged unpaid job.
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