The Presidency has dismissed claims by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar regarding an alleged investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into financial dealings involving Lagos State, describing them as baseless and misleading.

Atiku, had in a statement through his media office on Thursday claimed that an allegation that the Lagos State Governor Sanwo-Olu funded his campaign in 2023 was orchestrated by the Tinubu-led government of to advance his political interest.

But in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga  Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the Presidency criticised Atiku for relying on unverified social media reports and accused him of engaging in political theatrics to remain relevant.

“These claims, circulated through his media office, are false and reflect a troubling pattern of relying on social media gossip over substance. It is disheartening that a politician of Atiku’s stature would lend credibility to baseless social media speculation to remain politically relevant.

• Achimugu’s investigations have no link with Atiku, Sanwo-Olu – EFCC
• 40,000 families benefit from Dangote food intervention in Borno

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains focused on addressing critical national challenges and advancing his administration’s agenda for Nigeria’s growth and stability. The President has neither the time nor the inclination to engage in petty political distractions.

“Atiku’s allegations are infantile and a transparent ploy to deflect from his political setbacks. His repeated attempts to drag the Presidency and now the Lagos State Government into fabricated controversies reveal a desperate bid for attention amid his fading attempt to cobble a coalition.

“Since his defeat in the 2023 presidential election, the former Vice President has failed to rise to the dignified role of an elder statesman. Rather than contributing constructively to the national discourse, he has chosen the path of divisive rhetoric and unfounded accusations.

“We urge Atiku Abubakar to redirect his energy toward initiatives that foster unity, economic progress, and democratic stability—qualities Nigeria urgently needs.

“Lastly, the former Vice President should know that the EFCC, as an independent institution, operates within its statutory mandate without external influence. Any insinuation otherwise is a disservice to the agency’s professionalism and the rule of law.

He said, “The Presidency remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of national development—priorities that demand our undivided attention.”