Has the Chief of Staff to President Tinubu Been Replaced by Hakeem Muri-Okunola? Here’s the Breaking News
Abuja, Nigeria — December 25, 2025:
Fresh rumours that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has replaced his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, with his Principal Private Secretary, Hakeem Muri-Okunola, have been firmly debunked by the Nigerian Presidency.
The speculation — which spread rapidly on social media platforms on Christmas Day — claimed that Gbajabiamila had been quietly removed from office and succeeded by Muri-Okunola. But authoritative sources from the State House have clarified that this narrative is not true.
Presidency Dismisses Viral Rumour as Fake News
In an official press statement, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the circulating report as “a fabrication by mischievous purveyors of fake news.” The Presidency said there has been no change in the leadership of the President’s office.
Why the Rumour Spread
The speculation appears to have been driven largely by social media posts from unverified accounts, with no credible sources backing the claim. Rumours of changes in key government positions tend to resurface periodically in Nigerian political discourse — especially during years of political tension or cabinet reshuffles. In previous years, reports circulated that Babatunde Fashola or Hakeem Muri-Okunola might succeed Gbajabiamila, but these also lacked official confirmation.
What This Means for Nigerians
This episode is a reminder of the impact of viral misinformation in the digital age. False political news can escalate quickly, especially around high-profile roles like Chief of Staff — one of the most influential positions in government.
Here is Bayo Onanuga’s press release from his verified X account @BayoOnanuga
STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE
Chief of Staff Gbajabiamila not replaced by Muri-Okunola
The attention of the Presidency has been drawn to a viral falsehood circulating on social media suggesting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has replaced his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, with his Principal Private Secretary, Hakeem Muri-Okunola.
There is absolutely no truth to this story. We advise Nigerians to disregard it entirely.
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 viral claim is a fabrication by mischievous purveyors of fake news whose sole aim is to create disharmony within the government.
We reiterate that news media should always verify their information before publishing or sharing on social media.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President,
(Information and Strategy)
December 25, 2025
