The presidency has claimed President Muhammadu Buhari’s concluding remarks at the meeting with South-East Leaders in Imo is being deliberately contorted and twisted. The President’s spokesman, Femi Adesina said the purveyors of disinformation want Nigerians to believe that Buhari warned Governor Hope Uzodinma.
A statement by Adesina on Sunday recalled the President’s comment: ‘‘I will be careful with your (Uzodinma’s) future invitations”.
Adesina said some people have adduced different meanings to the phrase, contrary to the context wherein the President spoke.
He noted that at the banquet hall of Imo Government House in Owerri, Buhari was welcomed by over 50 of the region’s leaders.
The Nigerian leader, Adesina continued, made it clear that he was overwhelmed by the reception and personalities that travelled to have a heart-to-heart discussion with him.
Adesina quoted Buhari as saying he had thought he would only see bridges, roads and renovations. ‘‘He didn’t tell me he was going to get the whole Igbo leadership here. In the future when he invites me, I’ll know what to do. I think he has done what the military don’t like. He has achieved surprise.”
According to Adesina, Buhari added: “Governor of Imo State, I cannot thank you enough, but I will be careful with your future invitations.’’
He insisted that the President’s visit was successful and that Igbo leaders who met him shared the enthusiasm that his trip would bring peace, foster unity and encourage better understanding.
