The Nigerian Presidency has dismissed claims that Vice President Kashim Shettima was denied entry to the Presidential Villa. Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Vice President’s Office), labeled the reports as deliberate falsehoods. He asserted that the accusations lacked credibility and urged Nigerians to ignore such malicious rumors. Nkwocha stressed the importance of media seeking information from credible sources, emphasizing that sensational claims could mislead the public and cause unnecessary tension.

The rumors of Vice President Shettima being barred from the Presidential Villa were part of a broader pattern of fabricated stories designed to create discord within the presidency. Nkwocha refuted the claim, stating firmly that there was no basis for it. He described the report of armed military barricades blocking Shettima’s access to the Villa as an absurd and desperate attempt to undermine the Vice President’s credibility.

This is not the first time misinformation has targeted the presidency. Earlier, false reports about campaign posters bearing President Bola Tinubu’s image had surfaced. Nkwocha pointed out that these baseless allegations aim to sow distrust and question the unity between the President and Vice President. However, he assured Nigerians that the relationship between Tinubu and Shettima remains strong and focused on delivering results for the nation.

In addition to addressing the allegations, Nkwocha praised Nigerians for their support of the Tinubu administration and their vigilance against fake news. He emphasized the administration’s dedication to upholding democracy and constitutional governance, ensuring that no amount of disinformation would derail its commitment to national progress. Nkwocha reaffirmed Shettima’s focus on his responsibilities and his refusal to be distracted by fabricated controversies.

The statement highlights the Presidency’s stance against misinformation while underscoring its determination to maintain stability and accountability in governance.