A false and sensational report from an obscure online platform, Daily Excessive, has triggered a wave of social media speculation, alleging a military lockdown at Nigeria’s Presidential Villa and suggesting that Vice President Kashim Shettima was denied entry by armed soldiers. The claims, which quickly gained online traction, hinted at a looming power tussle within the federal government.
However, thorough investigations and confirmation from authoritative sources within the Presidential Villa — including senior officials and security personnel — have debunked the report as entirely baseless. There is no military lockdown in Abuja, no unusual troop deployment at Aso Rock, and no incident involving the Vice President being barred from accessing the premises. Activities at the State House are proceeding without disruption, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Shettima continuing their collaborative efforts under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The misinformation appears to have originated from a routine and far less dramatic event: ongoing infrastructure upgrades within the Villa. As part of a planned initiative to improve internal roadways and public utilities, certain access points have been temporarily closed to vehicles. While this has caused minor adjustments — such as staff and visitors using alternate parking areas and shuttle buses — these are standard administrative procedures, entirely unrelated to any security concerns.
Unfortunately, platforms like Daily Excessive have chosen to distort these mundane developments into a fabricated narrative of crisis. Their report falsely described a scenario of armed barricades and political tension, despite the absence of any credible evidence. This kind of reckless journalism not only misleads the public but also threatens national stability by stoking unnecessary fear and suspicion.
This is not the first time the Vice President or the workings of the Presidency have been targeted by disinformation. Only months ago, a flurry of unsubstantiated social media claims suggested Vice President Shettima was being sidelined in government affairs — allegations swiftly refuted by reliable sources. The emerging pattern points to coordinated efforts, often politically motivated, aimed at creating the illusion of discord between the President and his deputy. These falsehoods are typically propagated through anonymous accounts and fringe media outlets, taking advantage of the digital media landscape to spread quickly before facts catch up.
The timing of this latest rumour is telling. Vice President Shettima has recently taken a more prominent role in high-level policy reforms, ranging from improving the business environment to advancing disaster preparedness, youth empowerment, and national productivity. His rising influence, particularly in the North and among policy stakeholders, appears to have unsettled certain quarters, fueling a fresh wave of targeted misinformation.
The symbolism of the Presidential Villa as Nigeria’s seat of power makes it a frequent subject of rumour and speculation. However, false claims of instability around the Villa not only damage public perception at home but can also create diplomatic ripples internationally. Regrettably, any outlet would prioritise sensationalism over journalistic integrity.
To be clear: there is no lockdown, no barricade, and no denial of access involving Vice President Shettima. What is unfolding within the Villa is a routine infrastructure project managed by relevant authorities, with standard security measures firmly in place.
The public is therefore advised to disregard the false narrative and rely on verified updates from official government communications, reputable media houses, and credible journalists.
As Nigeria moves forward with reforms aimed at national development, the importance of accurate reporting and civic responsibility cannot be overstated. In an age where misinformation spreads rapidly, media literacy is a collective duty. Let us stand firm against propaganda, uphold the truth, and continue to build a more united and resilient nation.
