One week after he left for the UK in circumstances that many found odd, General Muhammadu Buhari, the presidential candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC) will Thursday, Feb 26, take part in a panel discussion at London think tank, Chatham House.
According to a notice posted on Monday, Buhari will participate in a research event at the House alongside a former UK ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Gozney. The men will discuss: Prospects for Democratic Consolidation in Africa: Nigeria’s Transition in a one-hour program from 10:00 to 11:00am.
Here is the Chatham House statement on the event:
Overview
“The postponement of Nigeria’s fifth election since its return to civilian rule in 1999, together with fierce political competition, a security crisis and severe economic challenges linked to the drop in oil price, have thrown into sharp relief the challenges of conducting this essential process in such a complex environment. While there is widespread speculation as to the reasons for the delay, there is also widespread acknowledgment of the necessity that national elections do now take place as scheduled on 28 March.
“General Muhammadu Buhari, former military ruler (1983-85) and now opposition presidential candidate, will discuss the importance of democracy for Africa’s future, and in particular why delivering dividends of elected government matter both to Nigeria and internationally.
“LIVE STREAM: This event will be live streamed. The live stream will be made available at 10:00 GMT on Thursday 26 February.
“ASK A QUESTION: Send questions for the speaker by using #CHAfrica on Twitter. A selection will be put to him during the event.
“Please apply to attend by midnight on Tuesday 24 February. Applications received after this time will not be considered. Entry to this meeting is restricted to e-ticket holders only.”
In his statement to announce a trip that has been dogged with controversy, Buhari’s spokesperson, Garba Shehu stated that the retired General would speak at the Royal Institute of International Affairs at Chatham House as well as hold talks with “key members of the British political establishment”.
However, searches at Chatham House revealed no such speech was planned, leading to charges that the politician’s handlers were not being truthful about the whole purpose of his trip.
Some of his opponents, including Ekiti State governor, Ayo Fayose, had charged that Buhari was in the UK for medical purposes.
“Many people would be keen to see Buhari’s demeanour and his agility at the Chatham House event,” says Bayo Olukotun, a public affairs analyst in Lagos. “One thing is for sure, there would be many Nigerians in the hall on that day – and many of them will be looking for any slip-ups.”
