Presidency Admits That Buhari’s Aides Travel Despite Interstate Lockdown

President Muhammadu Buhari’s spokesperson, Garba Shehu, has revealed that some aides of the President travelled despite the ban on interstate travelling by the Federal Government and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.

This is coming after the recent clash in Aso Rock which involved the First Lady’s aide and the Police.

Shehu while speaking Channels TV on Monday, noted that the aides of the President were permitted to move once they can present a compelling reason before security agents at checkpoints.

President Buhari’s spokesperson stated this while reacting to the reports that Yusuf Sabiu aka Tunde, refused to self-isolate after returning from an interstate trip.

Shehu said, “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.”

Shehu when challenged with the fact that only essential workers are allowed to travel interstate, he noted that essential goods are moved by humans.

“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.

When asked if Tunde, who is at the centre of the recent incident, would resume work today, Shehu responded, “If he happens to be there, I will not be surprised and if he is not, I will not be surprised.”

Recall that six aides of the First Lady, Aisha Buhari were arrested by the police, following an altercation between them and Tunde.

There were claims that Tunde travelled outside the Federal Capital and during his trip met with someone who was COVID-19 positive.

The first lady was said to have asked him to self-isolate for 14 days but he refused which led to the altercation.