Nigerian security forces dispersed protestors in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, who were demonstrating over President Muhammadu Buhari’s prolonged absence from the country. Buhari has been in London since early May for treatment of an undisclosed illness, fuelling concern about his ability to govern.

While taking his oath of office, the president did solemnly affirm that he would be faithful and bear true allegiance to the Federal Republic of Nigeria; that as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he would not allow his personal interest to influence his official conduct and decisions. The people of Nigeria have a right to not only know about his condition but also gain access to him. It is human to fall ill. Sickness is no respector of office. Denying this fact is elevating oneself to the realm of the gods, a trap that most African leaders have fallen into.  

The African Executive wishes the president speedy recovery, urges the people of Nigeria to uphold sobriety, and appeals to relevant authorities to lift the secrecy shrouding his health. Failure to do this may portend a security threat as special interest groups take advantage of the mystery to front their agenda.