Presidency Reacts to Rumors of Plans to Relocate FCT to Lagos

In response to widespread speculation, the Presidency has categorically denied any plans to relocate the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to Lagos. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, dismissed the rumors as the work of dishonest individuals aiming to draw attention to themselves.

Onanuga emphasized that those propagating the false claims are engaging in divisive and regional politics, attempting to pit the North against the South. He stated firmly that Abuja, as the Federal Capital, is legally established and here to stay.

The statement comes on the heels of the recent relocation of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), a department of the Aviation Ministry, to Lagos. Onanuga clarified that this move does not signify a shift of the entire FCT to Lagos, asserting that administrative decisions should not be politicized.

President Tinubu’s adviser highlighted that similar relocations, such as certain departments of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to Lagos, are rational administrative decisions. He argued that regulatory bodies should be in proximity to the industries they oversee, and these moves should not be misconstrued as political maneuvers.

Onanuga urged for a cessation of what he termed “dirty politics,” emphasizing that baseless rumors distract from the broader national agenda. He called for a more nuanced understanding of administrative decisions, pointing out that several key parastatals operate outside of Abuja based on their mandates.

In conclusion, the Presidency reiterated its commitment to steering clear of divisive politics, urging the public to avoid being swayed by unfounded rumors and to focus on substantive national issues.