Presidency breaks silence on viral ‘United States of Nigeria’ rumour, denies Tinubu plot to scrap Sharia Law
Fact-Check: Tinubu not ranked third most corrupt leader in the world—OCCRP and DUBAWA clarify. Photo credit: Bola Tinubu/X
The Presidency has strongly dismissed viral reports alleging that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu plans to change Nigeria’s name to the “United States of Nigeria” and abolish Sharia Law in the northern region through constitutional amendments.
In a statement issued on Thursday, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga described the claims as completely false, misleading, and politically motivated.
The Presidency said the circulating report was designed to create tension, spread misinformation, and destabilise the country ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Presidency Rejects ‘United States of Nigeria’ Claim
The controversial report, which gained traction on social media platforms, claimed that President Tinubu was preparing a constitutional amendment package allegedly code-named “Project True Federation.”
According to the rumour, the proposed reforms included changing Nigeria’s name to the “United States of Nigeria” and abolishing Sharia Law in northern states.
However, the Presidency categorically denied the allegations, insisting that President Tinubu has no such plans.
“The Presidency wishes to inform Nigerians and state clearly that there is no truth to the viral fake story claiming that President Bola Tinubu seeks to carry out constitutional amendments that will change Nigeria’s name to the United States of Nigeria and abolish Sharia Law in the Northern region,” the statement read.
Presidency Blames Fake News And Political Mischief
The Presidency accused unnamed politicians and “agents of destabilisation” of spreading the false report in a bid to heat up the political atmosphere ahead of the next elections.
According to Onanuga, the viral claims were deliberately crafted to create disaffection among Nigerians and trigger unnecessary political and religious tension.
He warned citizens against consuming and sharing divisive misinformation, noting that fake political reports are likely to increase as the country approaches the 2027 election season.
“The story, which cited anonymous sources, is part of the dubious plot by some desperate politicians to create disaffection in our country, stir up a political crisis, and heat the polity ahead of the general elections,” he stated.
No ‘Project True Federation’ Bill — Presidency
The Presidency also denied reports suggesting that Tinubu intends to send a bill known as “Project True Federation” to the National Assembly before the elections.
According to the statement, no such proposal exists within the administration’s agenda.
Onanuga stressed that constitutional amendments in Nigeria follow a rigorous democratic process involving extensive legislative debate and approval procedures.
He explained that constitutional changes cannot be implemented solely at the discretion of the President or lawmakers without broad national consensus.
READ ALSO
How Constitutional Amendments Work In Nigeria
The Presidency highlighted that constitutional amendments require a two-thirds majority in both chambers of the National Assembly, alongside approval from at least 24 State Houses of Assembly.
Officials noted that constitutional reform is a sensitive national issue requiring scrutiny, consultation, and public debate.
By clarifying the legal process, the Presidency sought to counter impressions that the executive arm could unilaterally impose sweeping constitutional changes.
Tinubu Focused On Economic Reforms
Rather than pursuing controversial constitutional amendments, the Presidency said President Tinubu remains focused on implementing economic reforms and improving living conditions for Nigerians.
According to the statement, the administration’s priority remains stabilising the economy, strengthening governance, and delivering tangible benefits across sectors.
The government also urged Nigerians to rely on verified information from official sources and credible media platforms.
Political observers say the clarification became necessary due to the widespread reactions the rumour generated online, particularly concerning religion and national identity.
Rising Concern Over Political Misinformation Ahead Of 2027
The Presidency’s reaction comes amid growing concerns over misinformation, propaganda, and politically charged fake news ahead of the 2027 elections.
Analysts warn that fabricated reports touching on sensitive issues such as religion, ethnicity, and constitutional restructuring can heighten tensions if left unchecked.
Observers have therefore called for responsible use of social media and greater public awareness regarding verification of political information.
For now, the Federal Government insists there is no plan to rename Nigeria, abolish Sharia Law, or introduce any constitutional proposal under the alleged “Project True Federation.”
FAQ
Did President Tinubu plan to rename Nigeria?
No. The Presidency has officially denied reports claiming President Bola Tinubu plans to rename Nigeria as the “United States of Nigeria.”
Is Nigeria changing its name to United States of Nigeria?
No. According to the Presidency, the viral report claiming Nigeria will be renamed is false and misleading.
Did Tinubu plan to abolish Sharia Law?
No. The Presidency stated clearly that President Tinubu has no intention of abolishing Sharia Law in northern Nigeria.
What is Project True Federation?
“Project True Federation” was mentioned in viral online rumours alleging planned constitutional reforms. However, the Presidency says no such bill or proposal exists.
Who reacted to the viral Tinubu rumour?
Bayo Onanuga issued the official statement denying the claims on behalf of the Presidency.
Why did the Presidency deny the reports?
The Presidency said the reports were capable of creating political unrest, religious tension, and public disaffection ahead of the 2027 elections.
Can the President alone change Nigeria’s constitution?
No. Constitutional amendments in Nigeria require approval by two-thirds of both chambers of the National Assembly and endorsement by at least 24 State Houses of Assembly.
Is Sharia Law still legal in Nigeria?
Yes. Sharia Law remains operational in several northern Nigerian states within the framework permitted by the Nigerian Constitution.
What is President Tinubu currently focused on?
According to the Presidency, Tinubu is focused on implementing economic reforms and improving the welfare of Nigerians.
Why are fake political stories spreading online?
Political analysts say misinformation often increases during election periods as groups attempt to influence public opinion or create tension through viral claims.