The office of Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has categorically dismissed reports circulating online that he was “ordered to resign on health grounds,” branding the claims as “pure fabrication” and “falsehoods” from Sahara Reporters.
In a scathing rebuttal to the widely circulated story, Gboyega Akosile, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Sanwo-Olu, expressed deep concern over the continued pattern of disinformation attributed to the online publication.
He stressed that Governor Sanwo-Olu is in good health, mentally fit, and is actively discharging his responsibilities as the Governor of Lagos State.
The statement followed the publication of a sensational headline by Sahara Reporters, claiming that Governor Sanwo-Olu had been pressured into stepping down due to alleged health concerns, with his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, reportedly poised to take over.
“These reports are not only false, they are an intentional attempt to mislead the public,” Akosile stated. “Governor Sanwo-Olu is not under any pressure to resign, nor has anyone demanded his resignation. The Governor is well, in excellent health, and continues to fulfill his duties as Lagos State’s leader with commitment and dedication.”
Earlier today, Governor Sanwo-Olu held a routine meeting with his Deputy Governor, Dr. Hamzat, who visited him to formally announce his intention to run for the governorship position in the upcoming election. Akosile described the meeting as “cordial,” emphasizing that it was a normal political consultation that did not suggest any issues concerning the Governor’s health or leadership.
The statement from Akosile was unambiguous in its condemnation of Sahara Reporters, accusing the platform of routinely publishing misleading and sensational stories that have caused confusion in the past.
While the Governor’s office typically refrains from responding to “false and malicious reports,” the Special Adviser emphasized that the need to reassure Lagosians about their Governor’s health made this statement necessary.
“In light of the growing disinformation, we feel it is crucial to address these malicious rumors. The people of Lagos deserve to know the truth,” Akosile said.
The Governor’s office advised the public to disregard the story as fake news and warned against the spread of misinformation that could undermine trust in the state’s leadership.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who has overseen significant developments in Lagos State, remains a prominent figure in Nigerian politics. Despite ongoing attacks from media outlets like Sahara Reporters, his administration has continued to push forward with policies aimed at urban development, health improvements, and infrastructure growth.