In a strong reaction to the recent spate of false reports targeting his office, the Office of the Vice President has dismissed claims that Vice President Kashim Shettima was denied access to the Presidential Villa. The office described the reports as deliberate fabrications aimed at causing confusion and implying a rift within the Presidency.
In a statement issued by Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications, the Vice President’s office refuted the allegations, calling them part of a concerted effort to spread disinformation. “These mischievous reports are entirely fabricated, designed to mislead the public into thinking there is discord at the highest levels of government,” Nkwocha said. “For the record, NOTHING OF THE SORT EVER HAPPENED.”
A Baseless Allegation
Nkwocha specifically addressed a recent publication by certain online platforms that claimed armed military personnel had been deployed to prevent Vice President Shettima from entering the Presidential Villa. He described these reports as “the wildest expression of wishful thinking,” adding that they were completely divorced from reality. “This story is so far removed from the truth that it could only be believed by those unfamiliar with the operations of the Nigerian government,” he said.
False Narratives and Political Mischief
The statement also referenced earlier attempts to spread fake news, including a claim about campaign posters bearing the image of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. “These reports are a desperate attempt to create friction between the President and the Vice President, to undermine their commitment to the rule of law and Nigeria’s constitution,” Nkwocha remarked. “Those behind these falsehoods will fail in their efforts.”
He emphasized the strong relationship and mutual respect between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima, noting that the public’s ongoing support and the strength of the bond between the two leaders were underestimated by the purveyors of fake news. “These fabricated stories serve no purpose other than mischief and distraction,” Nkwocha added.
The Vice President’s Focus on National Progress
In conclusion, Nkwocha reiterated that the Vice President remains focused on his duties and on assisting President Tinubu in fulfilling the aspirations of the Nigerian people. “The Vice President has no time for distractions, particularly those created by individuals who seek to stir up controversy where there is none,” he stated.
The office expressed gratitude to Nigerians who continue to support the administration and to those who are actively fighting the spread of fake news. “The trust and goodwill of Nigerians are deeply appreciated,” Nkwocha said. “This government’s mandate is legitimate and constitutional, and no amount of falsehood can undermine it.”
A Call for Responsible Media Practices
The statement closed by urging the public to disregard these malicious reports and calling on the media to continue relying on credible sources when reporting news. “Sensational claims should be approached with caution,” Nkwocha concluded. “This is a responsibility we all share as a nation.”
