…By Larry John for TDPel Media. The Presidency has come forward to defend a comment made by President Muhammadu Buhari regarding his potential relocation to Niger Republic if he faces disturbances in Daura, Katsina State after his tenure ends.
Naija News reported that Buhari had recently mentioned that Niger Republic would serve as a safe haven for him to rest after handing over power to President-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu on May 29.
However, this remark was met with disapproval from many Nigerians who questioned the President’s loyalty to the country.
Presidential spokesman Garba Shehu addressed this matter during an appearance on Channels TV.
He explained that the President’s comment was meant as banter and a way to ease tension around himself.
Shehu further emphasized that Nigerians should become accustomed to the President’s sense of humor.
According to him, the President’s loyalty lies with Nigeria, and his remark merely indicates a friendly relationship with neighboring nations, rather than a question of loyalty.
Shehu, the presidential aide, underscored President Buhari’s achievements for Nigeria during his eight years in office and stressed that he deserves to rest.
He stated, “That is absolutely not the case. He has a way of throwing banters, a form of easing tension around himself.
Even after eight years, Nigerians must get used to the President’s sense of humor.”
Shehu also addressed the seriousness with which Nigerians were taking the President’s comment about relocating to Niger Republic, stating that if one were a Nigerien, they would likely appreciate seeing a caring president.
In summary, the Presidency has defended President Buhari’s statement about potentially relocating to Niger Republic as a humorous remark intended to alleviate tension.
The spokesman emphasized the President’s loyalty to Nigeria, highlighting his achievements and the need for him to rest after serving for eight years.
Shehu urged Nigerians to familiarize themselves with the President’s sense of humor and assured that the comment reflected friendly relations with neighboring countries rather than a lack of loyalty.