Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused the Presidency of orchestrating a smear campaign against him by sponsoring individuals to issue fake statements in his name.

In a statement released by his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku distanced himself from one Kola Johnson, who has been parading as his “media consultant.”

The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clarified that he has never appointed or engaged Kola Johnson in any capacity, describing all statements attributed to him as false.

“Our findings point directly to the Presidency, which in its desperation to smear opposition leaders, has resorted to hiring faceless mercenaries to fabricate fake stories and circulate unauthorized statements on Atiku,” the statement alleged.

Atiku also condemned what he called a “calculated propaganda project” designed to tarnish his reputation, citing in particular a false claim that an Atiku-led government would be dominated by one ethnic group.

He urged Nigerians and the media to remain vigilant, warning against falling for disinformation campaigns.

The statement further emphasized that only the Atiku Media Office (AMO)—through his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, or his Special Assistant on Public Communications—is authorized to issue statements on his behalf.

Atiku called on media houses that may have published the alleged fake press releases to immediately retract them.

“Editors and media gatekeepers are strongly advised to verify with the Atiku Media Office before publication,” the statement concluded.