Nigeria’s Senate President has dismissed growing speculation about his health, insisting that he remains fit and capable of discharging his duties. His clarification followed a wave of reports and social media commentary suggesting he may have travelled abroad for medical treatment.
In a statement on Monday, the Senate President explained that his recent stopover in London was for rest and leisure rather than medical reasons.
“There’s no truth to that. I’m in excellent health. I merely stopped over in London for a brief vacation. I have received thousands of calls from Nigerians, and I didn’t know they held me in such high regard,” he said.
The remarks come after several days of speculation, which gained traction on social media and fueled public concern about his wellbeing. Some citizens had voiced fears that his absence might affect legislative proceedings, while others criticized what they saw as a culture of secrecy around the health of public officials.
Political observers note that rumours about the health of prominent figures in Nigeria often trigger national debate, given the country’s history of leaders travelling abroad for medical care. The Senate President’s quick response, however, appears aimed at calming anxieties and dispelling misinformation.
Despite the controversy, aides close to the Senate President have reiterated that he remains actively engaged in legislative affairs. They stressed that he continues to receive regular briefings and is expected to return to the country shortly.
The incident underscores how speculation can spread rapidly in Nigeria’s highly charged political environment, especially with the amplification power of social media.
For now, the Senate President has reassured the public that he is in good health and fully committed to his responsibilities in the National Assembly.