Lagos Govt Denies Report of Governor Sanwo-Olu's Forced Resignation
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- The Lagos State Government has refuted reports alleging Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was asked to resign on health grounds.
- The government described the report by Sahara Reporters as "fake news" and affirmed the governor's good health and active discharge of duties.
- The clarification was issued to counter misinformation, with the government advising the public to disregard the report.
Premium Times, as a leading Nigerian news organization committed to factual and timely reporting, addresses the recent wave of misinformation concerning the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. A report by Sahara Reporters alleged that the governor was pressured to resign due to health concerns, with plans for his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, to take over.
This report is false in its entirety. Nobody has asked the Lagos Governor to resign – this is another fake news, which has become a pattern of Sahara Reporters. Governor Sanwo-Olu remains in good health, of sound mind, and is actively discharging his duties as Governor of Lagos State
However, the Lagos State Government, through its Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, has unequivocally dismissed these claims. Akosile labeled the Sahara Reporters' publication as "fake news," a recurring pattern from the outlet, and stressed that Governor Sanwo-Olu is in robust health and fully engaged in governing Lagos State. This firm rebuttal underscores the government's commitment to transparency and its determination to combat deliberate falsehoods that could mislead the public.
The timing of this denial is significant, coming shortly after Deputy Governor Hamzat formally notified Governor Sanwo-Olu of his intention to contest the governorship in 2027. The government clarified that this meeting was routine and cordial, emphasizing the smooth working relationship between the governor and his deputy. This detail is crucial in dispelling any narrative of internal discord or a rushed succession plan, as suggested by the "fake news" report.
We advise the public to disregard the Sahara Reporters story and treat it as fake news
Premium Times recognizes the importance of verifying information, especially when it pertains to the leadership of a major state like Lagos. The government's swift and clear response serves to correct the record and reassure the public. The article also touches upon the broader political landscape, noting previous reports of Governor Sanwo-Olu endorsing Hamzat as a potential successor, a move that signals early political maneuvering for the 2027 elections. The government's proactive stance in debunking false narratives is vital for maintaining public trust and ensuring a stable political environment.
Earlier today, the governor received Deputy Governor Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, who paid him a courtesy visit to formally notify him of his intention to contest for governor. The meeting was held in a cordial atmosphere, as is customary
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Premium Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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