The Presidency has firmly denied reports suggesting Vice President Kashim Shettima was prevented from entering the Presidential Villa , labeling the claims as entirely false and deliberately misleading.
In a statement released on Saturday, Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), dismissed the viral report as a “fabricated tale” aimed at creating tension within the Presidency.
“There has been a deliberate orchestration of falsehoods against the person and office of the Vice President,” Nkwocha said. “These reports are mischievous, unfounded, and meant to imply a rift at the highest levels of government.”
He emphasized that the allegation—that armed security forces barred Shettima from the Villa—was not only baseless but also absurd.
“Nothing of the sort ever happened. It is a wild expression of wishful thinking by those unfamiliar with the workings of government,” he stated.
Nkwocha pointed out that similar fake stories had circulated earlier in the week, including claims about campaign posters of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and stressed that they were part of a coordinated disinformation campaign.
He assured Nigerians that the relationship between President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima remains strong and focused on delivering good governance.
“Those spreading these lies continue to underestimate the mutual respect and partnership between the President and his Deputy. The Vice President remains committed to his responsibilities and has no time for distractions.”
Nkwocha also expressed gratitude to Nigerians who continue to counter false narratives and urged the media and public to rely on credible sources.
“We encourage all to disregard such malicious publications and verify information before sharing. The foundation of this administration’s mandate remains unshaken.”
