The Presidency on Tuesday refuted claims alleging that Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma prevented President Bola Tinubu from releasing Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In response to the reports, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, labeled the allegations as “fake news”, urging the public to disregard the misinformation.
In a statement, Onanuga clarified that Tinubu never engaged with Igbo businessmen in discussions related to the release of Kanu.
He categorically denied the reports suggesting that Uzodinma intervened in the matter.
Dismissing the fabricated narrative, Onanuga emphasized that President Tinubu did not hold any meeting with Igbo businessmen on the stated matter, and he did not make any statements concerning Governor Uzodinma’s alleged interference.
“The people of Imo State should please disregard the fake news in circulation that Governor Hope Uzodimma is blocking the release of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu by President Bola Tinubu,” Onanuga stated emphatically.
“The fake news is obviously designed to build some resentment against the governor who has done very well for his people and who deserves a second term via Saturday’s election.
“President Tinubu did not meet Igbo businessmen on Monday. He didn’t say what was ascribed to him. He didn’t blame Gov. Uzodimma for anything.
“Sahara Reporters did not report the fake news. The link provided did not lead to the fake news on the Sahara Reporters platform.