It has long been expected. Indeed, as soon as President Muhammadu Buhari returned Maech 10 from his 49-day medical vacation to the United Kingdom, UK, he had indicated that there would be need for another trip for follow up by his UK doctors.
On Sunday night, Buhari left Nigeria for London for the follow checks by his doctors. A statement by Femi Adesina, his special adviser on Media and Publicity, said the duration of Buhari’s stay in London will be determined by his doctors.
Adesina said the President had transmitted a letter to the National Assembly as required by law. “President Muhammadu Buhari proceeds to London tonight for a follow-up medical consultation with his doctors. He had planned to leave on Sunday afternoon, but decided to tarry a bit due to the arrival of the 82 Chibok girls, who arrived in Abuja earlier in the day. The President wishes to assure all Nigerians that there is no cause for worry. He is very grateful for the prayers and good wishes of the people, and hopes they will continue to pray for the peace and unity of the nation,” Adesina said.
He added that, “The length of the President’s stay in London will be determined by the doctors. Government will continue to function normally under the leadership of the Vice-President. President Buhari has transmitted letters about the trip to the Senate and the House of Representatives in compliance with Section 145 (1) of the 1999 Constitution.”
For a while now, Buhari was rarely seen at public functions. He was absent from the weekly Federal Executive Council, FEC, meetings three consecutive times, causing anxiety among Nigerians.
He was said to be resting based on the instructions of his doctors.