The Presidency has strongly denied recent claims suggesting that Vice President Kashim Shettima was blocked from entering the Presidential Villa. In a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Mr. Stanley Nkwocha, the allegations were described as a deliberate attempt to spread falsehoods. Nkwocha called the report completely disconnected from reality and stated that such misinformation can only be believed by those unfamiliar with how the Nigerian government operates.
Nkwocha urged the public to ignore the false claims, emphasizing the importance of relying on credible sources for news. He also encouraged the media to exercise caution when dealing with sensational stories. He pointed out that these fabricated reports are part of a larger scheme to create confusion and falsely suggest discord within the presidency. According to Nkwocha, the latest claim that the Vice President was barred from the Villa is nothing more than an unfounded and reckless attempt to damage the reputation of Shettima and his office.
The report, which falsely alleged that armed military personnel blocked Shettima’s access to the Villa, was described by Nkwocha as “the wildest expression of wishful thinking.” He also recalled a similar attempt earlier in the week to spread misinformation about the circulation of campaign posters bearing the images of President Bola Tinubu. These false stories, Nkwocha explained, aim to undermine the President and Vice President’s commitment to upholding the constitution and the rule of law.
Despite these attempts to spread division, Nkwocha reassured Nigerians that the bond between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima remains strong. He emphasized that Shettima is focused on his duties and is not distracted by baseless rumors. “These stories serve no purpose beyond mischief and distraction,” Nkwocha stated, reaffirming Shettima’s dedication to supporting the President in fulfilling the nation’s aspirations.
Nkwocha also expressed gratitude to Nigerians who continue to support the administration and combat the spread of fake news. He reassured the public that the democratic mandate given to the government remains unshaken by falsehoods and malicious narratives.
