From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The Nigerian presidency has firmly dismissed widespread rumours suggesting that Senator George Akume has been removed from his position as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
In a statement released on Saturday by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Presidency described the reports of Akume’s alleged replacement as “fake news” and the work of “agents of mischief.”
The statement emphasised that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is currently in Saint Lucia, has not made any new appointments regarding the office of the SGF.
“There has been no change in the status of His Excellency, Senator George Akume, as Secretary to the Government of the Federation,” the statement read. “The information circulating about Akume’s replacement is untrue. Agents of mischief fabricated it. The Presidency advises Nigerians to disregard the fake news.”
Speculation about Akume’s position began swirling on social media earlier on Saturday, with several unverified reports claiming that President Tinubu had appointed a new SGF in the person of Hadiza Bala Usman. The rumours quickly gained traction, leading to confusion and concern among political observers and the public alike.
Akume, a former governor and seasoned politician, was appointed SGF in June 2023 and has since played a key role in coordinating government activities under President Tinubu’s administration.
The Presidency has urged citizens to rely on official channels for accurate information and to disregard unsubstantiated reports circulating online.