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George Akume remains SGF, says Presidency.
TJ News Nigeria reports that the Presidency has officially dismissed viral reports suggesting that Senator George Akume has been replaced as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
In a press statement issued on Saturday, June 28, 2025, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, clarified that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has not made any such appointment and that the circulating claims are false and misleading.
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“There has been no change in the status of His Excellency, Senator George Akume, as Secretary to the Government of the Federation,” Onanuga stated.
No SGF Replacement—Presidency
According to the release, President Tinubu, who is currently in Saint Lucia, has not approved or announced any new SGF. The Presidency described the reports as “fabricated by agents of mischief” and warned Nigerians to disregard the fake news.
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The false report had claimed that Akume was replaced by Hajia Hadiza Bala Usman, a former Chief of Staff to the President and former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). The rumor quickly gained traction on social media and some blogs, prompting official clarification.
“The information circulating about Akume’s replacement is untrue. Agents of mischief fabricated it,” the statement emphasized.
Background: Who Is George Akume?
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Senator George Akume, a former Governor of Benue State and former Minister of Special Duties, was appointed SGF by President Tinubu in June 2023. He has since played a key role in coordinating federal government policies and inter-ministerial activities.
Also Read: 19 Bayelsa PDP Lawmakers Back Governor Diri’s Defection to APC
His appointment was widely praised across the political spectrum, especially in the North Central zone, where Akume is regarded as a political heavyweight.
Online Reactions and Clarifications
The viral falsehood sparked a mix of confusion and criticism online, with many Nigerians demanding official clarification. Some social media users speculated about internal power struggles, while others questioned the credibility of unverified sources.
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TJ News Nigeria learned that the rumour may have stemmed from political rivalry or orchestrated attempts to destabilize internal party structures.
Bayo Onanuga Warns Against Fake News
Bayo Onanuga cautioned citizens, media platforms, and social media influencers to verify information before sharing, especially concerning sensitive matters of governance.
“The Presidency advises Nigerians to disregard the fake news,” Onanuga reiterated.
This is not the first time key figures in Tinubu’s cabinet have been the subject of fake resignation or replacement claims. Political observers suggest that false narratives are becoming a regular tactic in Nigeria’s turbulent political landscape as the country moves closer to the 2027 elections.
What you should know
- George Akume remains SGF, says Presidency.
- No appointment has been made to replace him.
- The rumour was described as the work of “agents of mischief.”
- Nigerians have been advised to disregard the false news.
📌 Stay with TJ News Nigeria for verified political updates and official government clarifications.
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