Aso Rock Dismisses Rumours of Chief of Staff Shake-Up
The Presidency has refuted claims circulating on social media suggesting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has replaced his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, with his Principal Private Secretary, Hakeem Muri-Okunola.
The rumour, which gained traction online and was attributed to unnamed “insider” sources, sparked speculation about an alleged leadership change within the President’s inner circle.
Reacting in an official statement issued on Thursday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, described the reports as false and misleading, urging Nigerians to completely disregard them.
“The attention of the Presidency has been drawn to a viral falsehood circulating on social media suggesting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has replaced his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, with his Principal Private Secretary, Hakeem Muri-Okunola. There is absolutely no truth to this story,” the statement read.
Onanuga clarified that there has been no alteration in the current administrative structure, noting that both officials continue to discharge their duties in their respective capacities.
“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,” he added.
The Presidency further described the claim as a fabrication by purveyors of fake news bent on creating unnecessary tension and discord within Government circles.
It also issued a reminder to media organisations and social media users on the importance of verifying information before publication or sharing.
According to the statement, the Federal Government remains committed to transparency and urged the public to rely on official sources for accurate updates on Government affairs.
