The Presidency has reiterated that President Buhari will hand over power on the 29th of May, next year, as enshrined in the country’s constitution.
A statement by the Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, assures that President Buhari will not be treacherous to the confidence reposed in him.
The statement is a response to Chief Robert Clarke’s proposition that President Buhari’s tenure be extended by 6 months to enable him to completely douse the insecurity bedevilling the country.
The statement stresses that having been the first recipient of a democratic transfer of power from an incumbent administration to an opposition candidate in Nigerian history, President Buhari is committed to extending and entrenching democratic values across the country.
It says the President will in turn, hand the privilege of serving the people of Nigeria to whomever they choose through free, fair, and credible elections.
The statement however notes that Chief Clarke is right to say that without security, Nigeria would not likely realise its true potential as a peaceful and prosperous nation, stating that such thought has been at the core of his administration.
According to the statement, the administration’s consistency in ensuring security forced Boko Haram back from controlling whole swathes of the country.
It notes that Internally Displaced Persons are now returning to rebuild their communities, emphasising that the achievements have been accomplished through the bravery and determination of the Nigerian Armed Forces and the fortitude of Nigerians.
The Presidency says the new challenges of National Livestock Transformation Plan to alleviate herder-farmer clashes, the elimination of the leadership of ISWAP, and new efforts to combat banditry are being tackled appropriately.
It emphasises that till the last day of the administration, the security of the citizens will remain the administration’s paramount concern, pointing out that it will finish the job.
It states that in any case, respect for the constitution and Nigerians’ democratic rights remain the best path to securing and maintaining peace.
On Chief Afe Babalola’s suggestion that elections be suspended, with the current elected government replaced by an interim unelected administration, the Presidency notes that his views are a defiance to the constitution, which could invite crisis and instability.
Abdullah Bello
