I have no idea who is paying for Buhari's medical treatment in London - Adesina

The Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Bihari on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, has said that he doesn't know who is paying for the President’s treatment in London.

Mr Adesina said this on Monday when he made an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today.

The presidential aide, however, acknowledged that as a president, Buhari’s medical bill can be footed by Nigeria.

“I do not know who is paying, but as a president, he has a right to be treated by the country,” Adesina said.

The Nigerian president left the country about 98 days ago for a second treatment for an undisclosed ailment.

He had earlier left Nigeria on January 19 for London to “undergo routine medical check-ups” during a short holiday. He only returned on March 10 after an extended period of medical treatment.

Asked if he felt the President appeared fit enough to travel back to Nigeria, Adesina said, “If you know the President, at the peak of his performance – when he first assumed the Presidency and we went to different parts of the world, you will know that he is a man of tremendous energy and tremendous ability.

“If a man was ill and he has mended, that means he is restored. He can do what he used to do and possibly even more.”

Reacting to those who say the president’s doctors should follow him back to Nigeria and monitor his progress since he is stronger now, Adesina said:

“Their opinions do not necessarily translate to the gospel truth. It’s just an opinion.”

One other aspect of the President’s medical vacation that has generated controversy is the decision to keep the Presidential Aircraft, NAF 001, in London since May 7 when the President flew there.

The controversy had emanated from the realisation that taxpayers’ funds will be spent on parking fees.

The Presidency had in a statement late June defended the move, saying the country was expected to get a discount on the payments.

Adesina, who confirmed that the aircraft was still in London, maintained the same position on Monday.