Presidency Denies Alleged Poison Plot Against President Tinubu as Fake News
The Presidency has firmly dismissed circulating reports that claimed a member of the kitchen staff at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa was arrested for attempting to poison President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The denial was issued by the President's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday, March 1, 2026, in response to a viral video that alleged a security breach involving a presidential chef.
Viral Video Sparks False Claims
In the footage, a narrator described a shocking arrest of a presidential chef over an alleged plot to poison President Tinubu, suggesting that the incident prompted swift intervention by a special police squad and heightened security measures within the presidential environment. The video included claims of preliminary information from security sources, indicating suspicious activities in food preparation procedures within restricted areas linked to presidential operations. It further stated that authorities moved quickly after receiving credible reports of a possible threat to the president's safety, leading to a coordinated investigation involving specialized security personnel tasked with protecting national leadership.
The narration emphasized that the operation was carried out professionally and discreetly to avoid public panic while ensuring all potential risks were neutralized. The suspect, identified as a member of kitchen staff attached to presidential services, was reportedly taken into custody for questioning as investigators began examining evidence and verifying claims connected to the alleged poisoning attempt. Security agencies were said to have urged the public to remain calm, stressing that the investigation remains ongoing and that allegations do not automatically imply guilt until due process is followed.
Official Rebuttal and Call to Ignore Fake News
Responding directly to these allegations, Bayo Onanuga categorically dismissed the claims as fabricated. He stated, "No Aso Rock kitchen staff arrested. No Aso Rock kitchen staff attempted to poison President Tinubu. Please ignore this fake news being disseminated by this video." This statement was shared to counter the misinformation and reassure the public about the safety and security protocols at the Presidential Villa.
The Presidency's swift response highlights ongoing efforts to combat false information and maintain transparency in government communications. This incident underscores the challenges posed by viral misinformation in the digital age, particularly concerning national security and public figures.
