Clash in Aso Villa: Presidency defends Buhari’s aide

The Presidency has defended President Muhammadu Buhari’s Private Secretary and nephew, Yusuf Sabiu (aka Tunde), against Nigeria’s First Lady Aisha Buhari in the recent clash that occurred at the Presidential Villa.

Speaking on channels Television on Monday, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu said Tunde had to leave Abuja for Lagos to see his wife who was delivered of a baby.

This was what led to the clash at the villa involving Aisha Buhari, members of her immediate family, her Aide-de-camp, Usman Shugaba and Sabiu Yusuf after he refused to adhere to the 14 day quarantine order.
In an attempt to force him into self-isolation, Aisha’s Aide-de-camp, Usman Shugaba, allegedly fired some gunshots, an incident that led to his arrests and other security aides at the scene.
Garba Shehu further explained that people are allowed to travel interstate if they present a compelling reason before security agents.

“The Presidency has not failed. Don’t forget there is a caveat in that protocol. When travels are necessitated, they are permitted and even in the Villa, hardly do you have a day without somebody coming from their state whether they are governors and they come to do official business.

“Therefore, what is not permitted is frivolous and unwarranted travel. When it is warranted, the people can offer themselves at the checkpoints and once the explanations they give are convincing, they are allowed to proceed. I think this happens all over the country.

“We follow what the NCDC and Ministry of Health prescribe. The difference the Villa makes is that there is an eye on everyone,” he said.