By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo
The Arewa Think Tank has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to allow recent allegations involving the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, to influence decisions concerning members of his administration.
Addressing journalists in Kaduna, the Convener of the group, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, described the reports surrounding the purported Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) as politically motivated and called on Nigerians to rely on verified information.
According to Yakubu, prominent supporters of the President are sometimes subjected to public allegations whenever they are perceived to be taking on greater national responsibilities.
He recalled similar public controversies involving Senator Abdulaziz Yari, which he said emerged during discussions about the former Zamfara State governor’s possible role in preparations for the 2027 general elections.
Yakubu urged President Tinubu to remain focused on governance and not be distracted by political controversies.
“We want to tell President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to allow unverified claims to deny him the services of capable people as we approach the next general elections. Nigerians should also be careful to verify information before drawing conclusions,” he said.
The group also welcomed the Presidency’s response to the controversy, noting that the State House had clarified its position on the matter.
It noted that, in a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Presidency stated that the PFIPC is not a recognised government agency and that Gbajabiamila neither authorises appointments nor issues official correspondence on behalf of such a body.
The Presidency also stated that reports suggesting the Chief of Staff was facing removal from office were false, reaffirming that he remains in office.
Yakubu said the clarification by the Presidency should help address public concerns surrounding the issue.
“The official position of the Presidency is very clear. Nigerians should rely on verified information rather than speculation that could distract the government,” he said.
He further called on political actors to conduct themselves responsibly and avoid actions capable of undermining public confidence in democratic institutions.
The controversy has continued to attract public attention following claims relating to the PFIPC. However, the Presidency has maintained that the organisation is not part of the Federal Government structure and has reaffirmed its position regarding the Chief of Staff.
