The Nigerian Presidency has firmly dismissed circulating reports on social media claiming that President Bola Tinubu has removed Femi Gbajabiamila as Chief of Staff, replacing him with Principal Private Secretary Hakeem Muri-Okunola.
In a statement issued on 25 December 2025, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, described the claims as “a viral falsehood” and a fabrication by “mischievous purveyors of fake news” aimed at creating disharmony within the government.
“There is absolutely no truth to this story. We advise Nigerians to disregard it entirely,” Onanuga stated. He emphasised that Gbajabiamila remains in his position as Chief of Staff, while Muri-Okunola continues to serve as Principal Private Secretary, with no changes to the administrative structure.
The rumours gained traction on various social media platforms earlier in the week, prompting the swift rebuttal. Onanuga also urged media outlets and the public to verify information before sharing, highlighting the risks of amplifying unverified claims.
This is not the first time speculation has surrounded Gbajabiamila’s role. Similar rumours emerged in September 2024 amid talks of a potential cabinet reshuffle, suggesting possible replacements including former Minister Babatunde Fashola or Muri-Okunola. However, no such changes occurred then, and Gbajabiamila has continued in his duties.
Gbajabiamila, a seasoned politician and former Speaker of the House of Representatives (2019-2023), was appointed Chief of Staff on 2 June 2023, shortly after President Tinubu’s inauguration. He represented Surulere I Federal Constituency in Lagos for 20 years before resigning from the National Assembly in June 2023 to take up the presidential role.
Muri-Okunola, appointed Principal Private Secretary in September 2023, previously served as Head of Service in Lagos State from 2018 and had worked closely with Tinubu during his tenure as Lagos Governor.
