The Presidency has refuted widespread reports claiming that Muhammed Babangida, son of former military Head of State, Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB), turned down his recent appointment as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture (BOA) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Contrary to a letter shared on Monday by media personality Dele Momodu, which appeared to show Babangida declining the appointment on personal and professional grounds, the Presidency insists the claim is false.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), presidential media aide Olusegun Dada stated:
“Muhammed Babangida has officially accepted his appointment as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture (BOA), expressing deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the trust reposed in him.”
Dada described the viral rejection letter as “false and malicious,” alleging that it was part of a coordinated attempt to mislead the public and undermine the credibility of the Tinubu administration.
The Presidency added that investigations were underway to identify the individuals behind the “fake reports,” with assurances that appropriate legal action would follow.
“We remain committed to transparency, accountability, and fostering unity within our nation. Those responsible for this falsehood will be thoroughly investigated and brought to justice,” the statement read.
Interestingly, the controversy stems from a letter dated July 21, 2025 — purportedly authored by Muhammed Babangida and shared by Ovation Magazine publisher Dele Momodu — in which he appeared to decline the role.
The letter, titled “Declining Appointment as Chairman, Bank of Agriculture,” reads in part:
“After careful reflection and consultation, I have decided, with utmost respect, to decline the appointment… due to a convergence of personal and professional considerations.”
In a follow-up reaction on Instagram, Momodu, who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), commented:
“Well done, Muhammed, for rejecting a Greek gift.”
The ADC also weighed in, accusing President Tinubu of trying to “buy over Northern Nigeria” ahead of the 2027 elections through politically motivated appointments.
Muhammed Babangida was among a list of recent appointees named by President Tinubu as part of efforts to restructure and revitalize key government institutions.
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