Vice President Kashim Shettima’s visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari in London has raised public interest, as it marks the latest development in the ongoing health concerns surrounding the former leader. Sources close to the matter confirmed that Shettima arrived in London the Sunday before last and visited Buhari at an undisclosed hospital the following Monday morning. The former president, who has been receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness, was reportedly in intensive care during the initial phase of his hospitalization but has since stabilized and is now in recovery.
A Private Visit
Shettima’s trip was kept private, with the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, confirming the visit but stressing that it was “a totally private matter.” Despite this, the Vice President’s journey drew significant attention given the former President’s critical health history.
The details of Shettima’s visit were initially disclosed by a credible source who indicated that, apart from checking on Buhari, Shettima also met with former Head of State Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar during the same trip.
Apprehension and Reassurance
Amid concerns about Buhari’s condition, rumors swirled on social media suggesting that his health had deteriorated to a critical state. However, former media aide Mallam Garba Shehu intervened, dismissing these exaggerated reports. Shehu stated in a message, “The information available to me is that he (Buhari) is in a recovery mode.” He reassured the public that Buhari was responding well to treatment, amid growing anxiety over his health.
Buhari’s Medical History
Since assuming office in 2015, Buhari has made frequent trips abroad for medical check-ups, with his health often the subject of public scrutiny. His illness in 2017, which saw him spend over 100 days in London, led to extensive media coverage, sparking public debate about his fitness to serve. Subsequent visits to London in 2018 and 2021 for medical reasons added to the narrative of Buhari’s health challenges during his presidency.
Garba Shehu’s Confirmation
After several media inquiries, Garba Shehu confirmed the hospitalization, describing the former president’s medical treatment as an “annual check-up” that turned into an illness. “I am happy to announce that he is doing well in his recovery while receiving treatment. We pray for his healthy recovery,” Shehu added.
Bashir Ahmad Denies ICU Reports
Former aide Bashir Ahmad took to his social media to debunk claims that Buhari had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), clarifying that the former President’s health situation was stable and that he was recovering. Ahmad emphasized, “Contrary to the exaggerated claims circulating in the media, he is stable and responding well to treatment, and we are optimistic about his full recovery.”
Ahmad also thanked Buhari’s supporters and well-wishers for their prayers, expressing hope for his complete recovery.
A Long History of Private Health Care
Buhari’s preference for private medical care is well-documented. During his presidency, he often retreated to Daura, Katsina State, and occasionally to Kaduna for medical care. His family and aides have always kept his health matters under wraps, maintaining a relatively low profile, especially after his tenure ended in 2023.
This recent visit by Vice President Shettima comes amidst heightened public interest in Buhari’s health. As Nigerians continue to pray for his swift recovery, questions about his long-term health remain unanswered, with many wondering whether his medical condition will affect his political influence moving forward.
