Umaru Yar'Adua           Photo courtesy

The people of Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, deserve acclamation for upholding sobriety amidst the mystery surrounding their president. Whereas Africa identifies with Nigeria and wishes President Umaru Yar’Adua good health, the secrecy shrouding his health ought to be lifted as it may in the long run prove counterproductive.

 

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.

 

Since it is the people of Nigeria who installed President Umaru Yar’Adua in office, they have a right to not only know about his condition but also gain access to him. It is disturbing that neither the country’s Vice President nor the minister charged with communication have first-hand details on the president’s predicament. As the case of Israel’s former premier Ariel Sharon who has been in a coma since 2006 demonstrates, 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 appeals to Yar'Adua's family and members of his inner sanctum to take courage and allow the country’s legislators to access him. Continuous secrecy will only portend a security threat for there is no knowing what maneuvers special interest groups are orchestrating behind the scenes.