Buhari Was Nigeria’s Most Informed President, Not Detached — Garba Shehu
Garba Shehu, former spokesperson to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has dismissed widespread claims that his former principal was disconnected from national affairs while in office. In an interview with Arise News on Tuesday, Shehu insisted that Buhari was deeply informed and deliberately chose a quiet, work-focused approach to governance over media theatrics. “President Buhari didn’t just want to cut ribbons and take pictures. He wasn’t a showman. He wanted his work to speak for him,” Shehu stated, noting that Buhari was often ahead of his aides on current issues, having read the news and stayed informed long before daily briefings. He admitted Buhari’s leadership was perceived as slow, but explained it stemmed from the former military leader’s transition to democratic principles. “Yes, he was slow. But he believed in due process. Nigerians want quick fixes, but he insisted on following the law,” Shehu said, referencing Buhari’s own admission of being less brash than during his days as a military ruler. When asked about speculations that Buhari might challenge President Bola Tinubu or the APC in 2027, Shehu rejected the idea outright. “Buhari is loyal to the APC. That party gave him the opportunity of a lifetime. He contested three times and only won when he teamed up with Tinubu. Why would he now fight the same party?” he added.