The Presidency has denied reports that Muhammed Babangida, son of former military Head of State Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB), rejected his recent appointment as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture (BOA) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Contrary to claims made in a letter circulated on social media, presidential media aide Olusegun Dada stated via X (formerly Twitter) on Monday that Muhammed Babangida has accepted the appointment and expressed gratitude to the President.
“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 wrote.
He further described reports of Babangida rejecting the role as false and malicious, aimed at misleading the public and undermining the credibility of the Tinubu administration.
Conflicting Letter
Despite the Presidency’s statement, a letter dated 21 July 2025 and shared online by Dele Momodu, publisher of Ovation Magazine and a recent defector to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), appeared to contradict this. In the letter titled “Declining Appointment as Chairman, Bank of Agriculture”, Muhammed Babangida purportedly declined the role due to “personal and professional considerations.”
“After careful reflection and consultation, I have decided, with utmost respect, to decline the appointment,” the letter read.
“It stems from a convergence of personal and professional considerations, which, at this time, would not allow me to serve with the level of focus and commitment the position rightly demands.”
Momodu praised the alleged rejection on Instagram, calling the appointment a “Greek gift” and congratulating Babangida for distancing himself from it.
Political Fallout
The situation has sparked controversy, with the ADC accusing President Tinubu of attempting to ‘buy’ Northern Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general election, citing the strategic nature of recent appointments.
In response, the Presidency reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability and promised to investigate and identify those responsible for spreading the “fake news.”
“We remain committed to transparency, accountability, and fostering unity within our nation,” the Presidency said.
“Those spreading these falsehoods will be thoroughly investigated and brought to justice.”
Background
Muhammed Babangida’s appointment was announced just two days ago as part of a broader set of strategic leadership changes across key government institutions. His involvement was seen by many as a move to bring technocratic and northern elite engagement into the Tinubu administration.
As of press time, Muhammed Babangida himself has not issued a direct personal statement, leaving room for further speculation amid conflicting narratives.
