Garba Shehu, former presidential spokesperson for President Muhammadu Buhari, has refuted allegations of betraying former Vice President Atiku Abubakar by joining Buhari’s media team in 2015. Shehu clarifies that his move was not an act of disloyalty, but rather a natural progression of events following the 2014 All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primary, where Buhari emerged as the party’s flagbearer. Shehu, who previously served as Atiku’s spokesperson, explains that after the primary, all the aspirants, including Atiku, Rochas Okorocha, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and the late Sam Nda-Isaiah, consolidated their media teams to support Buhari’s campaign. Shehu became part of this merged team and was subsequently appointed as the campaign’s media director by Buhari. This transition, he emphasizes, was a collective effort and not a personal defection against Atiku.
Shehu further elaborates on his decision to refrain from criticizing Atiku during his tenure with Buhari. He argues that attacking Atiku would have undermined Buhari’s trust in him, as it would have suggested a potential for similar disloyalty towards the president. He draws a parallel with historical precedents, citing the example of the fallout between Moshood Abiola and Ibrahim Babangida, where the presidential spokesperson refrained from vilifying Abiola. This principle of loyalty and discretion, Shehu contends, guided his conduct throughout his service under Buhari.
Shehu’s upcoming book, “According to the President: Lessons from a Presidential Spokesperson’s Experience,” set to launch on July 9, provides a deeper look into these events and much more. The book, he explains, is not an autobiography but rather a resource for aspiring journalists and public relations professionals, offering insights into Buhari’s leadership style and the inner workings of his administration. It aims to inspire young professionals and provide a practical guide to navigating the complexities of media and government relations.
The book, spanning 260 pages, delves into the key policies and initiatives undertaken during Buhari’s eight-year presidency. While acknowledging the impossibility of covering every aspect of the administration’s work, the book spotlights key accomplishments like the Treasury Single Account (TSA), Bank Verification Number (BVN), National Identification Number (NIN), Tax Identification Number (TIN), and the whistleblower policy. These programs, Shehu argues, represent the administration’s commitment to enhancing transparency and accountability in governance.
Shehu further emphasizes the Buhari administration’s focus on laying the foundation for a more self-reliant Nigeria. The book explores how the administration’s policies aimed to reduce dependence on foreign aid and promote domestic economic growth. It also highlights the efforts made to instill a culture of integrity and transparency in government operations, setting a new standard for future administrations. Through these various initiatives, Shehu argues, the Buhari administration worked towards building a stronger and more independent nation.
In essence, Shehu’s book seeks to offer a nuanced understanding of the Buhari presidency, going beyond the headlines and providing an insider’s perspective on the challenges and triumphs of leading a complex nation. It is presented as a testament to Buhari’s leadership and a valuable resource for those interested in public service, journalism, and the intricate relationship between media and government. It also serves as a platform for Shehu to clarify his own role within the administration and dispel misconceptions surrounding his transition from Atiku’s team to Buhari’s.
