The Presidency has firmly dismissed reports suggesting that President Bola Tinubu has replaced his Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila with his Private Secretary Hakeem Muri Okunola. In an official statement, the Presidency described the claims as false, misleading, and lacking any factual basis.
The clarification comes amid rising speculation and online discussions about a supposed shake-up within the President’s inner circle, barely months into his administration. According to the statement, Gbajabiamila remains the Chief of Staff, continuing to coordinate the activities of the presidency and support the execution of government policies.
Presidential aides emphasized that the office of the Chief of Staff remains intact and that no formal action has been taken to replace Gbajabiamila. The Presidency further urged the public and media outlets to rely on official channels for accurate information regarding appointments and personnel matters within the government.
Observers note that the spread of unverified information about key political appointments can cause unnecessary confusion and speculation. The clarification aims to reassure stakeholders, government officials, and the public that there are no changes to the leadership structure of the President’s staff.
The statement also highlighted the importance of maintaining focus on governance and policy implementation rather than being distracted by rumors or unsubstantiated claims. It called on citizens and the media to prioritize verified sources and avoid spreading information that could undermine public confidence in the administration.
Gbajabiamila, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, continues to serve as a key figure in President Tinubu’s administration, coordinating interactions with government ministries, agencies, and international partners. His role remains central to the smooth operation of the presidency, overseeing strategic initiatives and managing the President’s official engagements.
The Presidency reiterated that any changes to senior appointments would be communicated through formal channels and stressed that no such official announcement has been made regarding Gbajabiamila or Muri Okunola. The statement serves as a clear message to dispel rumors and affirm the current leadership configuration within the executive office.
Analysts note that the rapid spread of misinformation on social media platforms has become a significant challenge for governments worldwide. Statements like this one from the Presidency help mitigate confusion and provide clarity on sensitive matters related to national leadership.
In conclusion, the Presidency reaffirmed that Femi Gbajabiamila remains the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, and any claims to the contrary are baseless. Citizens and media practitioners are encouraged to consult official statements to avoid the circulation of false news and ensure accurate reporting on government affairs.
