Tinubu: No plan to rename Nigeria, abolish Sharia law

*PRESIDENT TINUBU HAS NO PLAN TO CHANGE THE NAME OF NIGERIA AND ABOLISH SHARIA LAW IN THE NORTHERN REGION

The Presidency wishes to inform Nigerians and state clearly that there is no truth in the false viral story that President Bola Tinubu seeks to bring about constitutional amendments that will change the name of Nigeria to United States of Nigeria and abolish Sharia law in the Northern Region, among other claims.

The story, which cites anonymous sources, is part of a questionable plot by some desperate politicians to create disaffection in our country, foment a political crisis and overheat the political system ahead of the general elections.

Nigerians should ignore the viral story in its entirety because purveyors of fake news are agents of destabilization and merchants of disorder.

President Tinubu has no plan to send a bill codenamed Project True Federation to the National Assembly by December 15, a few weeks before the general elections.

Under our laws, constitutional changes and amendments are a serious matter requiring legislative scrutiny, oversight and serious debate. The process of amending the Constitution does not happen at the whim of the President or the National Assembly. It is a task that requires a 2/3 majority in both houses of the National Assembly and the consent of 24 state Houses of Assembly.

President Tinubu is focused on the arduous task of consolidating and deepening the economic reforms initiated by his administration. It focuses on providing more tangible dividends to Nigerians.

Nigerians should be wary of consuming false and controversial reports, which will proliferate as the nation begins political campaigns, a prelude to the January 2027 general elections.

*Bayo Onanuga
Special Advisor to the President
(Information and Strategy)