The Presidency has dismissed as false reports circulating on social media claiming that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has replaced his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, with the Principal Private Secretary, Hakeem Muri Okunola.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Presidency described the claim as a fabrication and urged Nigerians to disregard it entirely. According to the statement, both officials remain in their respective positions, with no changes made to the structure of the President’s immediate office.
“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 clarified.
The Presidency said the viral report was the handiwork of individuals bent on spreading falsehood and creating unnecessary tension within government circles. It warned that such misinformation could undermine public confidence and distract from the work of governance.
Reacting to the development, the Presidency emphasised that President Tinubu has not taken any decision to alter the leadership of his office and that there is no basis for the speculation making the rounds online.
The statement further cautioned media organisations and social media users against the indiscriminate sharing of unverified information, stressing the need for responsible journalism and adherence to professional standards.
“News media should always verify their information before publishing or sharing on social media,” the Presidency said, noting that the spread of fake news poses a serious threat to public discourse and national stability.
The clarification was signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, and dated December 25, 2025.
Femi Gbajabiamila, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, was appointed Chief of Staff to President Tinubu following the inauguration of the current administration. Hakeem Muri Okunola serves as the President’s Principal Private Secretary, a role that involves coordinating the President’s schedule and managing official correspondence.
The Presidency reiterated its commitment to transparent communication and assured Nigerians that any major decisions or changes within government would be formally announced through appropriate channels.
It also urged the public to rely on credible sources for information concerning the activities of the Presidency and other arms of government, particularly in an era where misinformation spreads rapidly across digital platforms.
