Abuja (Sundiata Post) – The confusion surrounding the long absence of President Muhammadu Buhari is getting clearer, Buhari has said he would only return to Nigeria when his London doctors certify him well enough to leave.
Buhari had, on January 18, 2017, written the National Assembly, notifying the legislature that he was proceeding on a 10-day leave.
According to the letter transmitted to both chambers of the National Assembly, the leave was expected to last for 10 working days, between January 23 and February 6.
Buhari, who temporarily transferred presidential power to the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, was suposed to arrive the country on February 5 for resumption of work on February 6.
He, however, wrote to the Senate President, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on February 5, informing the National Assembly of the extension of his vacation.
The letter was obtained by Premium Times on Saturday.
“Further to my letter dated 18th January 2017 in which I notified the Distinguished Senate of taking part of my annual leave.
“During my leave, I took the opportunity to have routine check-ups and consult my long standing doctors in London.
“In the course of the routine examinations, certain test result indicated the need for a course of medications, and further appointments have been scheduled for next week.
“I am, therefore, notifying the Distinguished Senate that I am extending my leave until the doctors are satisfied that certain factors are ruled out. In the circumstances, the Vice President will continue to act on my behalf.
“Please accept, Distinguished Senate President, the assurances of my highest consideration,” the letter read.
Meanwhile, the Presidency has stated that Buhari will not sneak into the country when he returns from his vacation abroad.
Special Adviser to Buhari on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, dropped the hint in a telephone chat with Daily Post on Saturday afternoon.
“If the president returns, we will all see him. He is the president of Nigeria and will not sneak in,” Adesina said.
Asked if his reaction was a sign he doesn’t know exactly when the president will return, Adesina replied: “Don’t put words in my mouth please.“I said when the president returns, Nigerians will see him. It’s not like he will sneak in, so let’s wait.”