The list of nominees, which has now gone viral on the Internet, has drawn criticism, particularly for the calibre of those nominated for honours.

The administration, however, debunked the list in a statement signed by Julie Jacobs, Director Press, Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, stating it will be released at the appropriate time and medium.

In a brief comment to The PUNCH, she advised people to avoid the list since it is an attempt by overzealous reporters to break news even if it is fake.

The statement read, “The attention of the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs has been drawn to a purported list of nominees for National Honours being circulated by some online media organisations.

“While it is true that President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, will be conferring National Honours on deserving Nigerians and friends of Nigeria on 11th October, 2022, the authentic list of nominees is yet to be released to the public. The Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs will publish the list at the appropriate time and medium.

“Members of the public are hereby enjoined to discountenance the list in circulation as it is an attempt by overzealous reporters whose aim is to break news even when such news is fake.”