The presidency has responded to unfounded allegations made by former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who claims to be under investigation by the EFCC for unsubstantiated financial dealings related to Lagos State.
“These claims, disseminated through his media office, are false and demonstrate a concerning trend of relying on social media gossip over factual information,” stated Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President for Information and Strategy, in a statement released on Friday.
“It is disappointing that a politician of Atiku’s stature would resort to lending credibility to baseless social media speculation as a means to maintain political relevance,” Onanuga further commented.
He emphasized that President Bola Tinubu is dedicated to tackling significant national issues and furthering his administration’s agenda for Nigeria’s development and stability.
The presidential aide mentioned that the president does not have the time or desire to indulge in trivial political distractions.
“Atiku’s allegations are childish and a clear attempt to deflect attention from his political failures.”
“His ongoing efforts to involve the presidency and now the Lagos State government in fabricated controversies reveal a desperate search for attention amidst his dwindling political influence,” Onanuga stated.
He noted that since his defeat in the 2023 presidential elections, the former vice president has not embraced the dignified role expected of an elder statesman.
Onanuga remarked that rather than contributing positively to the national conversation, he has opted for divisive rhetoric and unfounded claims.
“We urge Atiku Abubakar to channel his energy into initiatives that promote unity, economic advancement, and democratic stability – qualities that Nigeria critically needs.”
Finally, it should be noted that the EFCC operates independently within its legal framework, free from external influence.
“Any insinuation to the contrary undermines the agency’s professionalism and the rule of law.”
“The presidency remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of national development – priorities that require our full attention,” he concluded.
