Yomi Odunuga Not Acting Illegally, Appointment Approved – SGF

The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) has confirmed the formal appointment of seasoned journalist, Mr. Yomi Odunuga, as special adviser on media and publicity to the SGF, Senator George Akume.

This clarification was in response to conflicting reports in sections of the media questioning the legitimacy of Mr. Odunuga’s appointment and his role in issuing an official statement on behalf of the SGF.

In a press statement released yesterday, the special adviser on public affairs in the SGF’s office, Mr. Terrence Kuanum, stated that Odunuga’s appointment was duly approved by Senator Akume on Thursday, July 10, 2025, in accordance with the powers vested in him.

“Mr. Odunuga was appointed with the full approval of the SGF and mandated to begin active functions immediately. His appointment is currently undergoing documentation, as required under public service rules for seamless incorporation into the staff of the office,” Kuanum said.

He added that acting on the authority of the SGF, Mr. Odunuga had on the same day of his appointment issued a press release debunking rumours linking Akume with interest in the position of the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“The SGF reiterates his confidence in the capacity of Mr. Odunuga to bring his wealth of experience and proven track record as a journalist of sterling qualities to bear on the overall image of the office of the SGF,” the statement read.

The OSGF urged the public and media organisations to disregard contrary reports suggesting that the appointment was unauthorised or irregular.

Mr. Odunuga is a respected journalist and former group politics editor and Abuja bureau chief of The Nation Newspaper. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the communication and public affairs machinery of the SGF’s office.

This clarification lays to rest speculation that trailed the initial announcement of his appointment earlier in the week.