Presidency Denies Shettima Was Denied Access to Villa

The Presidency has dismissed as false a report claiming Vice President Kashim Shettima was recently denied access to the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Stanley Nkwocha, a spokesperson for the Vice President, described the story as “totally fabricated” and part of what he called a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and stir up political tension.

The report, which appeared on a handful of obscure blogs, alleged that military personnel had blocked Shettima from entering the Villa.

“The latest in this string of disinformation is a report claiming that the Vice President has been refused entry to the Villa,” the statement said.

“This is a feeble attempt to traduce the person and office of His Excellency, Vice President Kashim Shettima. For the record, nothing of the sort ever happened.”

According to him, the story is just the latest in a series of rumours aimed at creating the impression of a rift between President Bola Tinubu and his deputy. Nkwocha described the claim as “the wildest expression of wishful thinking,” adding that those behind it were “intent on creating smoke where there is no fire.”

“It’s regrettable that mischief-makers continue to underestimate the strength of the bond and goodwill between the President and the Vice President,” he said.

The Presidency also referenced another rumour circulated earlier in the week involving political campaign posters featuring President Tinubu, another claim it swiftly debunked.

Nkwocha stressed that Vice President Shettima remains focused on his work and would not be distracted by “the imagination of individuals” pushing baseless narratives. He urged journalists and the public to verify reports and avoid spreading unverified information.