Many ministers yesterday suspended their weekend break to return to Abuja after President Muhammadu Buhari’s return from 103-day medical vacation.
Cabinet members were surprised that they were caught unawares by the President’s return.
Many ministers knew about Buhari’s return through a statement early Saturday by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina.
It was unclear yesterday what caused the protocol slip which left out ministers, who were wondering why they were left them out of the airport reception party.
But a source said the President wanted a low-profile return since he had planned to address the nation today
A source said: “The cabinet members were actually not notified of the President’s return. If they had prior knowledge, they would have been around to welcome him.
“In fact, only Minister of FCT Mohammed Bello was on the list of those to receive the President in his capacity as the ‘governor’ of the territory.
“Some other ministers merely heard the announcement and decided to proceed to the airport in line with official norms.
“Those who were out of Abuja on assignment in some states hurriedly came back to welcome the President.
“ These ministers are worried about Buhari’s plans for them.”
“The goodwill for the president was tremendous. This was why he avoided being airlifted in a chopper that was waiting to convey him to the Presidential Villa.
“The presidential helicopter was at the airport but the President opted to go to the Villa by road.
“No one expected the massive turnout which pointed to the fact that he is still rated highly by many Nigerians.”
THE NATION
