Abuja-based governance advocate and policy analyst, Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, has dismissed allegations linking President Bola Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, to an alleged assassination plot against a factional leader of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), describing the claims as “fabricated lies.”
In an opinion piece published on Monday, Atoyebi highlighted Seyi Tinubu’s consistent philanthropic efforts, including a recent N500 million donation to flood victims in Maiduguri, and insisted he is not the kind of person who engages in political drama or violence.
“Despite being the son of the president, Seyi doesn’t fit the stereotype of someone who might use their position for personal gains.
“His focus has always been on meaningful contributions to Nigeria, especially the youth,” she wrote.
Her comments follow explosive claims by Comrade Isa Atiku Abubakar, a self-declared factional NANS president, who posted images of bruises online, alleging he was attacked, kidnapped, and offered a bribe for refusing to step down — accusations he later tied to Seyi Tinubu.
“It’s quite laughable to see some of the things flying around online,” Atoyebi remarked. “They don’t make sense by any standard… This looks like a badly planned attempt to tarnish someone’s name.”
Atoyebi also confirmed that the recent NANS leadership transition was properly conducted.
“The election was conclusive. The process was public. Elected officials were sworn in… governors, ministers, and respected personalities were present,” she noted.
She identified the new NANS President as Comrade Olushola Oladoja of the University of Jos, leading 18 other executives sworn in after the election. According to her, false narratives now circulating online threaten to undermine the legitimacy of the new leadership.
“It is common for those who didn’t win to form their groups and challenge the results. But we must ask: is this another attempt to create chaos or push personal agendas?” she asked.
She further stressed the importance of protecting the integrity of student representation in Nigeria.
“The youth are both the present and future of Nigeria. If we allow these distractions to continue, how can we focus on what truly matters?”
In his own statement, Seyi Tinubu has denied knowing or ever meeting Isa Atiku, distancing himself from any allegations of violence or bribery. Atoyebi believes the public can see through what she described as “a performance.”
“Seyi Tinubu has made his position known. He is not involved, and he will not be dragged into a matter that does not concern him,” she concluded. “Let’s stay focused on the best interests of Nigerian students.”
Atoyebi called on all parties to prioritise unity and progress, urging Nigerians to allow the newly elected NANS executives to deliver on their mandate.
