The Presidency has dismissed as false and misleading a viral report alleging that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu plans to initiate constitutional amendments aimed at changing Nigeria’s name to the “United States of Nigeria” and abolishing Sharia Law in the northern region.
In a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga on May 21, 2026, the State House described the report as fake news designed to create division and political tension ahead of the 2026 general elections.
According to the statement, the viral publication falsely claimed that the President intended to transmit a bill titled Project True Federation to the National Assembly by December 15. The Presidency firmly denied the existence of any such plan.
“The Presidency wishes to inform Nigerians and state clearly that there is no truth to the viral fake story,” the statement read.
The government accused unnamed political actors of deliberately spreading misinformation to destabilise the country and inflame political sentiments as election campaigns approach.
The statement further stressed that constitutional amendments in Nigeria cannot be carried out arbitrarily, noting that the process requires extensive legislative scrutiny and broad national consensus.
Under Nigeria’s constitutional framework, any amendment requires a two-thirds majority in both chambers of the National Assembly, alongside approval from at least 24 State Houses of Assembly.
The Presidency insisted that President Tinubu remains focused on governance and economic reforms rather than political distractions.
According to the statement, the administration’s current priority is delivering economic stability and tangible benefits to Nigerians through ongoing reform policies.
The statement also warned citizens against consuming and spreading divisive misinformation, particularly during politically sensitive periods.
“The purveyors of the fake news are agents of destabilisation and merchants of disorder,” the Presidency stated.
The clarification comes amid increasing political speculation and misinformation circulating across social media platforms ahead of the January 2026 general elections.
Political observers note that issues surrounding religion, constitutional restructuring, and regional identity remain highly sensitive topics in Nigeria’s political landscape, often capable of generating strong public reactions when linked to government policy debates.
The Presidency urged Nigerians to verify information from credible sources and avoid amplifying unverified claims capable of undermining national unity.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The National Concord Blog Newsletter for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now below!
