The Presidency says a Nigerian politician and elder statesman, Tanko Yakasai, has no moral rights to question President Muhammadu Buhari’s support for the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu.
Reacting to a recent interview, where Mr Yakasai frowned at President Buhari’s show of support for Tinubu, the presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu, noted that the Nigerian leader is entitled to his view or choice.
“Alhaji Tanko Yakasai is unknown to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Everyone is entitled to their view, but what we do know is that his insight in a recent interview does not come from within the party or the President’s team.
“His support for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is welcome, although it is difficult to see what value it will add.
“He is right to highlight his experience as a senior citizen, a leader in government; and ability to reach out across divides is strong foundation for the highest office.
“But Yakasai’s questioning of the loyalties of President Muhammadu Buhari stands in sharp contrast to the actions of the President.
“Only on Monday, he was out at a rally in Bauchi supporting the flag bearer of the party. Presidential duties permitting, he is scheduled to make further appearances at campaign events in the coming weeks.
”His support for the party’s candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, is unquestioned,” said the presidential spokesperon.
Shehu urged Nigerians not to take Yakasai’s comments about the President serious as he usually retracts his comments.
“If this wasn’t on TV, Yakasai’s unwise comment on the issue would have been dismissed as a misquotation. But he was live on TV.
“On this one against President Buhari, no one should take him seriously.
“Perhaps times are hard and the old man needs a bit of help,” he added.
Yakasai had appeared on a television programme, where he expressed his doubts about President Buhari’s support for Bola Tinubu.
Edited by Amaka E. Nliam
