The presidency has refuted reports claiming that governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State blocked President Bola Tinubu from releasing the embattled leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu.
Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement described the reports as fake news.
He explained that Tinubu never met with Igbo businessmen with the aim of releasing Kanu.
It was earlier reported in some section of the media that President Tinubu disclosed that efforts by his administration to release Kanu from custody have been frustrated by Uzodimma.
Tinubu was quoted to have said this during a meeting that the governor gave reasons why releasing Kanu before the Imo elections was dangerous.
But while reacting to the allegation, Onanuga urged Imo people to disregard the fake news and allegation against Uzodimma.
Part of the statement reads, “The people of Imo State should please disregard the fake news in circulation that Governor Hope Uzodimma is blocking the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu by President Bola Tinubu.
“The fake news is obviously designed to build some resentment against the governor, who has done very well for his people and who deserves a second term via Saturday’s election.
“President Tinubu did not meet Igbo businessmen on Monday. He didn’t say what was ascribed to him. He didn’t blame Gov. Uzodimma for anything.
“Sahara Reporters did not report the fake news. The link provided did not lead to the fake news on the Sahara Reporters platform.
“It’s all wicked lies by politically desperate people.”