The office of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has dismissed reports claiming he was asked to resign on health grounds, describing the publication as false and misleading. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, the Lagos State Government said the claims, attributed to Sahara Reporters, were fabricated.
Akosile maintained that the governor remains in good health and is fully engaged in his official duties. “These reports are not only false, but they are an intentional attempt to mislead the public,” he said.
“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 responsibilities with commitment.”
The Allegation
The online report alleged that the governor had been pressured to step aside due to health concerns, with Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat purportedly positioned to assume leadership. The story gained traction quickly, fueling speculation across social media and political circles.
But the government’s response was swift and categorical. Akosile described the claim as baseless, noting that the governor had earlier held a routine meeting with his deputy, during which Hamzat formally communicated his intention to contest the governorship. That meeting, he said, was cordial and part of normal political consultations, with no indication of any health-related issue affecting the governor.
The statement also criticized Sahara Reporters for what it described as a pattern of publishing sensational and misleading reports.
Why Speak Now?
The governor’s office does not usually respond to such claims, Akosile said. But it was necessary to address the report in order to reassure residents. “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 timing of the denial is significant. The story had already spread widely before the government responded. In the age of social media, false reports can go viral before the truth has a chance to catch up. By breaking its silence, the Lagos State Government is attempting to regain control of the narrative.
But denials alone may not be enough. Once a rumor about a governor’s health takes hold, it can linger. Political opponents may use it. The public may remain skeptical. The government’s statement is a necessary first step. Whether it will be sufficient is another question.
The Bottom Line
The Lagos State Government has denied reports that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was asked to resign on health grounds. Special Adviser Gboyega Akosile called the claims, attributed to Sahara Reporters, “false and misleading” and an “intentional attempt to mislead the public.” The governor is in excellent health and fully engaged in his duties, Akosile said. He also confirmed that Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat recently informed the governor of his intention to contest the governorship — a normal political discussion, not a succession plan.
The government typically does not respond to such claims but felt compelled to address the “malicious rumors” to reassure Lagos residents. The report has been dismissed as baseless. But the rumor has already spread. And in Nigerian politics, health questions about a governor do not disappear with a single statement.
