|By Adejumo Adekunle-
…Presidential aide insists Babangida accepted role with gratitude
…ADC, Momodu allege political motive behind appointment
The Presidency has firmly dismissed reports suggesting that Muhammed Babangida, son of former military Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida, rejected his recent appointment as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture (BOA) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The denial followed a letter dated July 21, 2025, purportedly authored by Muhammed and shared online by publisher and politician Dele Momodu. In the letter, Babangida was said to have declined the appointment citing “personal and professional considerations.”
However, in a statement issued Monday via X, presidential media aide Olusegun Dada debunked the claims, insisting that Muhammed had “gratefully accepted” the appointment and expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu.
“Muhammed Babangida has officially accepted his appointment as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture, expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for the trust reposed in him,” Dada stated.
He described the rejection claims as “false and malicious,” accusing certain actors of attempting to mislead the public and discredit the Tinubu administration.
“We wish to clarify that Muhammed gratefully accepts the appointment as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture and extends his sincere appreciation to President Tinubu for the trust and confidence bestowed upon him,” the statement read in part.
Dada added that the Presidency is determined to identify those behind the misinformation, warning that such individuals would be held accountable.
“We also want to assure the public that those spreading these falsehoods will be thoroughly investigated and brought to justice,” he said. “We remain committed to transparency, accountability, and fostering unity within our nation.”
Despite the presidency’s stance, a copy of the rejection letter circulated widely online. The letter, allegedly signed by Muhammed, acknowledged the honour of being nominated but respectfully declined, citing a need to remain focused on other personal and professional commitments.
“I have decided, with utmost respect, to decline the appointment… I remain fully committed to the vision of a prosperous and self-sufficient Nigeria under your leadership,” the letter read.
The development has sparked political commentary, particularly from Dele Momodu, who recently defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). In a post on Instagram, Momodu hailed Muhammed’s supposed rejection, describing the appointment as a “Greek gift.”
The ADC also seized the moment to criticise President Tinubu, accusing his administration of attempting to curry favour with the North ahead of the 2027 general election. The party condemned what it called “strategic appointments aimed at political positioning rather than national interest.”
Muhammed Babangida’s appointment was among several new roles approved by the President in what the Presidency described as a move to “strengthen leadership across key government institutions.”
As the controversy unfolds, the public remains divided over the authenticity of the rejection letter and the political undertones surrounding it.
