PRESIDENCY DISMISSES RUMORS OF CHIEF OF STAFF REPLACEMENT

The Presidency has firmly denied viral social media reports claiming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu replaced his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, with his Principal Private Secretary, Hakeem Muri-Okunola. In a statement, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, labeled the reports a falsehood.

“There is absolutely no truth to this story,” Onanuga stated. “We advise Nigerians to disregard it entirely.” He clarified that the Chief of Staff remains in his position and the Principal Private Secretary likewise remains in his role, confirming that Muri-Okunola has not replaced Gbajabiamila.

Onanuga attributed the viral claim to mischievous purveyors of fake news aiming to create disharmony within the government. He further urged news media to always verify information before publishing or sharing on social media. The statement from Bayo Onanuga was issued on December 25, 2025.