Presidency Denies Plan to Rename Nigeria, Abolish Sharia Law

The Presidency has dismissed as false and misleading reports claiming that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu plans to rename Nigeria as the “United States of Nigeria” and abolish Sharia Law in the northern region through constitutional amendments.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the viral report as fake news designed to create tension and political disaffection ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the Presidency, there is no plan by President Tinubu to sponsor any constitutional amendment bill allegedly code named “Project True Federation” or introduce proposals aimed at changing the country’s name or altering religious legal systems in the North.

“The Presidency wishes to inform Nigerians and state clearly that there is no truth to the viral fake story claiming that President Bola Tinubu seeks to carry out constitutional amendments that will change Nigeria’s name to the United States of Nigeria and abolish Sharia Law in the Northern region, among other claims,” the statement said.

The Presidency alleged that the report was being circulated by “desperate politicians” seeking to destabilise the country and inflame political tensions as election campaigns draw closer.

It urged Nigerians to disregard the publication in its entirety, warning that misinformation and divisive narratives may increase in the build up to the 2027 elections.

Onanuga also explained that constitutional amendment procedures in Nigeria are governed by strict legal and legislative processes that cannot be unilaterally undertaken by the President.

He noted that any constitutional amendment would require approval by two thirds of members in both chambers of the National Assembly as well as endorsement by at least 24 State Houses of Assembly.

“Under our laws, constitutional changes and amendments are serious business that require legislative scrutiny, oversight and serious debate,” the statement added.

The Presidency stressed that President Tinubu remains focused on implementing economic reforms and delivering governance priorities rather than engaging in controversial constitutional proposals.

“President Tinubu is focused on the arduous task of entrenching and deepening the economic reforms his administration has embarked upon. He is focused on delivering more tangible dividends to Nigerians,” Onanuga stated.

The statement further advised Nigerians to verify information from credible sources and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports capable of threatening national unity and stability.