Presidency Debunks False Poisoning Claim Against Tinubu, Labels Viral Video Misleading

The Federal Government has dismissed as false a viral video alleging that a kitchen staff member at the Presidential Villa attempted to poison President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, insisting that no such incident occurred.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the circulating footage as fabricated and urged Nigerians to disregard it. According to him, there was no arrest of any kitchen staff within Aso Rock Presidential Villa, nor was there any attempt on the President’s life.

The video, which has been widely shared across social media platforms, claims that a presidential chef was detained following intelligence reports of suspicious activity linked to food preparation in restricted areas. It also suggests that security operatives launched an urgent investigation to neutralise a potential threat. These claims triggered public concern before being officially refuted.

Also reacting, the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, said the content lacked any factual basis and should be ignored. He emphasised that the video was entirely misleading and not supported by any credible security report.

Officials say the quick response was necessary to counter misinformation capable of causing panic. They reiterated that no security agency has reported such an incident, reaffirming that the viral claims are baseless and untrue.