I didn’t organise national prayer, says Oluremi Tinubu

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu says she is not involved in organising a national prayer.

Tinubu and Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser (NSA), were reportedly billed to lead a national prayer over the challenges plaguing Nigeria.

The 7-day event, titled ‘Seeking the Intervention of God in Nigeria’s Affairs’, is said to be organised in conjunction with Christian and Muslim leaders.

Segun Afolorunikan, director-general of the National Prayer Forum (NPF), who announced the initiative, said Christians would meet at the National Ecumenical Centre for a week-long intercession while Muslims would gather at the National Mosque in Abuja.

But in a statement on Saturday, Busola Kukoyi, senior special assistant on media to the first lady, distanced her principal from the organisation of any prayers.

Kukoyi added that though Tinubu is an advocate of prayer, she “believes that prayer is an act that must be done willingly, conscientiously and correctly”.

“She also believes that praying for Nigeria is the responsibility of every Nigerian, irrespective of religious belief, political affiliation, tribe or tongue,” Kukoyi said.

“This is to clarify and inform the general public that the First Lady of Nigeria, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON is not organizing a National Prayer.

“The news making rounds in some conventional and social media platforms are unfounded and misleading. Consequently, anyone who might have come across the purported news of the joint National Prayer for Nigeria should disregard it as false.

“Members of the public are advised to verify the authenticity of any news or event involving the First Lady of Nigeria or her Office through Official channels. Kindly be advised accordingly.”

Meanwhile, the first lady was reported as leading, not organising the prayer session.

Kukoyi did not state whether Tinubu would partake in the event and in what capacity.