The Presidency has issued a strong rebuttal to recent allegations made by former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, who suggested that President Bola Tinubu has ambitions to become a “life president.” In a statement released today, the Presidency described the claims as baseless and a reckless attempt to sow discord and mislead the Nigerian public.
A senior presidential aide, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stated that President Tinubu is a democrat who has consistently upheld the tenets of the Nigerian Constitution. “The President’s commitment to the democratic process is unwavering. His focus remains squarely on delivering on the Renewed Hope agenda for the Nigerian people, not on speculative and unfounded tenure elongation fantasies,” the aide said.
The Presidency emphasized that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria clearly stipulates a two-term limit for the office of the President. “There is no plan, nor will there ever be a plan, to circumvent our nation’s supreme law. Such suggestions are not only false but are a disservice to the nation at a time when unity is paramount,” the statement read.
It further clarified that the administration’s focus is on addressing critical national challenges, including security and economic reforms. “President Tinubu is dedicated to the arduous task of nation-building. The government is making significant strides in securing the country and revitalizing the economy. These distractions are unhelpful and are dismissed in their entirety.”
The statement also questioned the timing and motive behind El-Rufai’s remarks, suggesting they were politically motivated. “It is regrettable that such statements are being made by a former official who served at high levels of government. The Nigerian people are wise to these tactics and remain focused on the tangible progress being made by this administration.”
The Presidency urged the media and the public to disregard what it termed “cheap propaganda” and to support the government’s efforts in moving the nation forward. It reaffirmed that President Tinubu will present his record to the electorate in 2027 and will respect their verdict, whatever it may be.
