Nigerian President, Muhammadu. Buhari has extended his stay abroad indefinitely. According to a press release issued by the State House, see below, the president claims this was necessitated by the need for him to complete and receive the results of a series of tests recommended by his doctors.
Upon embarking on this leave, the president did not inform Nigerians that it was a medical leave. Nigerians are left wondering if this is another repeat of 2011 where the late president Yaradua fell abroad for a then unknown ailment only to return months later dead. At the time, the government in power had tried so hard to conceal the status of his ailment, going as far as sending a recording (purported to be his voice) that suggested that he was healthy.
The current government seems to be towing that line, refusing to disclose the precise ailment or grant the media access to the President.
Premium times is also reporting that it spoke to Senior Special assistant to the president Mr Gaeba Shehu, who so she’d more light about the president situation. Here is Shehu on quote:
“I just spoke to the president’s personal doctor, and he told me President Buhari is not in any serious condition as to worry about,” Mr. Shehu said. “He is not in hospital. He is in the residence at the Nigerian High Commission.”
“He and his delegation were ready to come home today but for the delayed test result which came in today which necessitated that he delays his return.
“There is nothing to worry about as far as his condition is concerned,” Mr. Shehu said.
Here is the press release below:
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT BUHARI EXTENDS VACATION, WRITES NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
President Muhammadu Buhari has written to the National Assembly today, February 5, 2017, informing of his desire to extend his leave in order to complete and receive the results of a series of tests recommended by his doctors.
The President had planned to return to Abuja this evening, but was advised to complete the test cycle before returning. The notice has since been dispatched to the Senate President, and Speaker, House of Representatives.
Mr. President expresses his sincere gratitude to Nigerians for their concern, prayers and kind wishes.
FEMI ADESINA
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
February 5, 2017