The Presidency has refuted a viral video claiming that a chef working at the Presidential Villa was arrested over an alleged attempt to poison President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the report as completely false.
The video, which gained traction on social media, alleged that security operatives detained a member of the Villa’s kitchen staff after receiving intelligence about suspicious activities in restricted areas of the presidential residence. It further claimed that a special police team was deployed, leading to increased security presence within the complex.
According to the circulating claims, the supposed arrest followed what was described as credible threats to the president’s life, prompting a coordinated investigation by security agencies tasked with protecting the country’s leadership. The report also alleged that the unnamed staff member was taken into custody for interrogation while authorities examined evidence related to the alleged poisoning plot.
However, the Presidency has dismissed the narrative as fabricated.
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, labeled the video as fake news, insisting that no such incident occurred. He urged Nigerians to rely on official communication channels for accurate information and cautioned against spreading unverified reports capable of causing unnecessary alarm.
The development comes months after some military personnel were reportedly arrested over an alleged plan to overthrow the government. It was also gathered that a staff member of Julius Berger working at the presidential wing of the State House was among those questioned regarding the suspected coup plot.
