Presidency Reacts to Report of Alleged Move to Change Nigeria’s Name, Scrap Sharia Law

The Presidency on Thursday dismissed as fake a viral report claiming that President Bola Tinubu is planning constitutional amendments to change Nigeria’s name to the “United States of Nigeria” and abolish Sharia Law in the North.

In a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Presidency described the report as false and misleading.

According to Onanuga, the report, which relied on anonymous sources, was part of a calculated attempt by desperate politicians to create tension, provoke political unrest, and destabilise the country ahead of the general elections.

He urged Nigerians to disregard the story entirely, describing those behind it as agents of destabilisation and merchants of disorder seeking to heat up the polity with false and divisive narratives.

“The story is part of the dubious plot by some desperate politicians to create disaffection in our country, stir up a political crisis, and heat the polity ahead of the general elections,” the statement read.

Onanuga also denied claims that the President intends to send a constitutional amendment bill allegedly codenamed “Project True Federation” to the National Assembly before the elections.

He maintained that Tinubu has no such plan and remains focused on implementing economic reforms and delivering the benefits of governance to Nigerians.

According to the statement, the President is concentrating on strengthening the economy, deepening ongoing reforms, and improving the welfare of citizens rather than engaging in controversial constitutional proposals.

The Presidency further warned Nigerians to be cautious about fake reports and misinformation, especially as political activities ahead of the January 2026 general elections intensify.

It added that misleading stories and divisive propaganda are likely to increase during the campaign season, urging citizens to verify information before sharing it on social media and other platforms.

The statement reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to national unity, peace, and democratic stability.