The presidency has denounced a viral statement titled “Tinubu Speaks,” falsely attributed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as fake.

In a brief statement on Saturday, Presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale clarified that the widely circulated message did not come from the Presidency. “Based on recent inquiries, I wish to reiterate that this is fake and does not emanate from the Presidency,” Ngelale affirmed.

The fraudulent statement, widely shared on social media, falsely claimed President Tinubu addressed the nation’s economic challenges with drastic measures. These included a 50 percent salary cut for top officials, eliminating the Office of the First Lady, restoring fuel and electricity subsidies, reducing the number of ministers, selling presidential aircraft, and banning foreign medical trips for government officials.

This clarification comes amidst rising tensions over the planned hardship protests in Nigeria from August 1-10.