The Presidency has firmly denied reports circulating on social media alleging that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has replaced his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, with his Principal Private Secretary, Hakeem Muri-Okunola.
In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, on Thursday, the Presidency described the claim as entirely false and urged Nigerians to ignore it.
Okay News reports that the clarification followed the rapid spread of a viral post suggesting a reshuffle within the President’s inner circle at the State House.
“There is absolutely no truth to this story. We advise Nigerians to disregard it entirely,” the statement said.
The Presidency stressed that Gbajabiamila remains the Chief of Staff, while Muri-Okunola continues in his role as Principal Private Secretary, noting that no changes have been made to either position.
“The Chief of Staff remains in his position. The Principal Private Secretary likewise remains in his role. Hakeem Muri-Okunola has not replaced Femi Gbajabiamila as Chief of Staff,” the statement added.
According to the Presidency, the false report was deliberately crafted to cause confusion and internal tension within the government.
“The viral claim is a fabrication by mischievous purveyors of fake news whose sole aim is to create disharmony within the government,” the statement read.
The Presidency also used the opportunity to caution media organisations and social media users, emphasising the importance of verification before publishing or sharing information.
“We reiterate that news media should always verify their information before publishing or sharing on social media,” the statement concluded.
