The media office of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has firmly denied reports that he pledged to prioritize the interests of the Yoruba ethnic group if elected president in 2027.
On Wednesday, multiple online outlets circulated claims linking Atiku to a statement allegedly issued by one Kola Johnson, identified as his “media consultant,” asserting the supposed promise.
However, in a statement released Thursday, Paul Ibe, Atiku’s media adviser, refuted the reports, saying Atiku has never engaged Johnson in any capacity. Ibe described the claim as “false and misleading,” attributing it to a smear campaign orchestrated by the current Presidency.
“Our investigations indicate that, in a desperate attempt to discredit opposition leaders, the Presidency is employing faceless mercenaries to fabricate stories and circulate unauthorized statements on Atiku,” Ibe asserted.
He condemned as “particularly offensive” the insinuation that an Atiku-led administration would favor one ethnic group, emphasizing that this narrative forms part of a broader disinformation campaign.
Ibe further clarified that official communications from Atiku come solely from the Atiku Media Office and are only authentic if signed by Atiku himself or his Special Assistant on Public Communications.
“Atiku Abubakar has never engaged Kola Johnson as a media consultant, aide, or associate. Any statement bearing his name is fake and should be disregarded. We call on media outlets that published these falsehoods to retract them immediately,” Ibe urged.
He also warned Nigerians and the press to remain vigilant against propaganda, accusing President Bola Tinubu’s administration of sponsoring fabricated statements aimed at ridiculing opposition figures.
