Amofokhai Williams
The Presidency has dismissed as false reports circulating on social media claiming that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has replaced his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, with the Principal Private Secretary, Hakeem Muri-Okunola.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the claim as a complete fabrication and urged Nigerians to disregard it.
According to the statement, there has been no change in the leadership of the Office of the Chief of Staff, stressing that Gbajabiamila remains in his position, while Muri-Okunola continues to serve as Principal Private Secretary to the President.
“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,” the statement read.
The Presidency attributed the viral report to what it described as mischievous purveyors of fake news, accusing them of deliberately spreading falsehoods aimed at creating confusion and disharmony within government circles.
It also cautioned media organisations and social media users to exercise due diligence by verifying information from credible sources before publishing or sharing reports, especially those relating to sensitive government appointments.
The clarification was issued on December 25, 2025, amid heightened online speculation over changes within the presidency’s inner circle.
