Presidency Dismisses Poisoning Rumors Against Tinubu

The Presidency has refuted widespread claims circulating on social media that a staff member from the kitchen of the Aso Rock Presidential Villa was apprehended for trying to poison President Bola Tinubu.

This statement was made on Sunday by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy. He shared the false video on his verified X account, calling the information completely untrue.

The video in question shows purported footage from the presidential villa, accompanied by a narration detailing a supposed security breach involving a presidential chef.

The narrator claims, “We are investigating reports of the shocking arrest of a presidential chef over an alleged plan to poison President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, prompting intervention from a special police unit and the implementation of stricter security protocols around the presidential premises.”

“Preliminary findings from security officials indicated that the arrest was triggered by intelligence reports hinting at irregularities in food preparation in secured areas related to presidential activities.

“Authorities acted swiftly upon receiving credible intel suggesting a potential threat to the president’s safety, leading to a coordinated effort involving specially trained security agents responsible for safeguarding national leaders.

“Officials asserted that the operation was conducted with professionalism and discretion to prevent public hysteria while addressing any potential dangers.

“The individual reportedly detained as a suspect was identified as a kitchen staff member associated with presidential duties. They are currently undergoing questioning as investigators assess the situation and verify the allegations pertaining to the supposed attempt on the President’s life.

“Security agencies have advised the public to remain composed, reiterating that the investigation is ongoing, and that mere allegations do not amount to guilt without proper legal processes.”

In his direct response to the allegations, Onanuga dismissed the rumors as baseless.

“There has been no arrest of any kitchen staff at Aso Rock. No kitchen staff at Aso Rock attempted to poison President Tinubu. Please disregard this false information propagated by this video,” he wrote.

Temitope Ajayi, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, also stated that the accusations were wholly unfounded.

“The circulating video suggesting a poisoning attempt on President Tinubu and the arrest of a cook at the Aso Villa is fake and completely misleading. There is no basis for this claim. It should be ignored,” he remarked.