President Muhammadu Buhari Friday declared that he could travel to his hometown, Daura, every two weeks if he likes and nobody can stop him but there are constraints of cost and exposing security to weather.
He made the declaration when he visited the Emir of Daura, Dr Umar Faruk Umar, at his palace.
The president regretted his inability to visit Daura more frequently, assuring that his heart remains with the people.
A statement issued by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President (Media and Publicity) quoted him as saying: “We are known for farming and I have my farm here. I could come every two weeks and no one can stop me. But the cost to the movement is high. I would rather that it be used to better our schools, clinics and hospitals.”
President Buhari urged businessmen, contractors and other privileged Nigerians who are beneficiaries of government patronage to always engage in Corporate Social Responsibilities instead of seeking to favour individuals with gifts.
He added: “I don’t want your cheque. Go and assist our communities instead of trying to return kickbacks to public officers.
“We don’t want cheques from anyone or organisation as returns or influence of any kind. Let them remember their Corporate Social Responsibilities.”
The president affirmed that the grace of God had kept Nigeria together as a country in spite of differences that led to a 30-month Civil War, stating: “We want to thank God always for keeping us together as a country. From January 15, 1966, the country was thrown into political crisis. We had a 30-month Civil War that resulted in the loss of about one million lives.
“We still thank God for keeping us together. We remain grateful to all those who showed interest in our unity and progress. May God continue to bless them.”
The President, who recalled fond memories of visiting the palace as a head of state, expressed happiness that the warmth and hospitality of the traditional institution had been sustained over the years.
In his remarks, the Emir of Daura, thanked the president for always creating time to visit his hometown and the palace despite the tight schedule.
END
Be the first to comment