Yahaya Bello Threatens Legal Action Over Alleged Fake News Targeting Relationship With President Tinubu
Former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has vowed to take legal action against individuals behind an online media outlet, Daily Excessive, for allegedly publishing a fake report aimed at straining his relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The move was disclosed in a statement signed by Michael Ohiare, Director of the Yahaya Bello Media Office, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.
Alleged Fake Report
The online platform reportedly claimed that Yahaya Bello, while in court, threatened to reveal how President Tinubu became the Nigerian president. Ohiare dismissed the report as baseless and a deliberate attempt to malign the former governor and disrupt his cordial relationship with the president.
“Our attention has been drawn to a mischievous and senseless report published by a mushroom blog called Daily Excessive, which attributed fake quotes to our principal,” Ohiare stated.
Legal and Security Measures
Ohiare emphasized that court proceedings are public records and accused the publication of fabricating events to mislead the public. He added that security agencies have been notified to investigate and identify those behind the fake report.
“We will ensure that the purveyors of this fake news face the legal consequences of their actions,” he asserted.
Bello’s Continued Support for Tinubu
Ohiare clarified that Yahaya Bello maintains a respectful relationship with President Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Alhaji Yahaya Bello has great respect for the person and office of Mr. President and would never make the ridiculous remarks attributed to him,” the statement read.
Detractors Blamed
Ohiare accused political adversaries of orchestrating the false narrative to undermine Yahaya Bello’s reputation. Despite these efforts, he reaffirmed the former governor’s unwavering support for the president and the ruling party.
This development highlights the growing issue of misinformation in Nigeria and the importance of verifying news sources before disseminating information.