By Muhammad Mamman
In an exclusive interview, Mallam Garba Shehu, former Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, sheds light on key events during Buhari’s tenure from 2015 to 2023. He addresses speculations about a supposed cabal, claims of Buhari’s inaccessibility, allegations of supporting former Vice President Atiku Abubakar against President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 election, and the curious tale of rats damaging cables in the president’s office. Below are edited excerpts for clarity and accuracy.
Life After Serving as Presidential Spokesman
How has life been since leaving your role alongside Femi Adesina?
The pressure has significantly eased. As a philosopher once said, “The cap draws the crowd; place it on another’s head, and they follow.” We’re no longer in that spotlight. I occasionally speak for former President Buhari and his family, but it’s far less intense than before.
Your Transition from Atiku to Buhari
You were close to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar before working for Buhari. How did that shift occur?
After Buhari won the 2015 APC primary, the media and communications teams of other candidates, including Tinubu and Atiku, were directed to support him. Buhari found me capable of leading his campaign’s media efforts and later appointed me as his spokesman.
Working Alongside Femi Adesina
How did you and Femi Adesina manage your shared responsibilities?
It was a strategic decision to have two spokespersons. Femi and I complemented each other, covering different engagements. Our prior friendship and professional respect, dating back to my presidency of the Nigerian Guild of Editors—where Femi was a key ally—ensured smooth collaboration. Despite warnings from figures like former Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi that we might clash, we never did. We worked harmoniously, like “two men sharing one wife without quarrelling.”
Allegations of Poison in the Air Conditioner
There were reports that something in the air conditioner made President Buhari ill. Can you clarify?
I’m unaware of any substance in the air conditioner causing illness. I never discussed the specifics of Buhari’s health with him, as personal medical details are private and should remain so.
The ‘Jubril from Sudan’ Conspiracy
What about claims that Buhari was replaced by a Sudanese doppelgänger named Jubril?
Laughter These were baseless rumours. After his medical treatment abroad, Buhari’s schedule was more tightly managed to reduce strain. He worked fewer late nights, and his team ensured engagements ended at reasonable hours. This change in routine likely fuelled speculation, but there was no truth to the ‘Jubril’ story.
The Notion of a Cabal
Was there a powerful cabal influencing Buhari’s decisions?
The idea of a cabal is nonsense. Buhari, a former general turned democrat, was his own man. No one could dictate his decisions. While advisors, including family, offered input, the final call was always his. Claims of a shadowy group controlling the presidency are unfounded.
Buhari’s Accessibility
Some said Buhari was inaccessible and not fully in control. Is this true?
Absolutely not. Buhari was arguably the most accessible president Nigeria has ever had. The notion that ministers couldn’t meet him is false. Unlike some leaders, he wasn’t overbearing and allowed his appointees autonomy, which some mistook for detachment.
Did Buhari Support Atiku Against Tinubu in 2023?
There were perceptions that Buhari backed Atiku over Tinubu in the 2023 election. What’s the truth?
That’s a misconception. After his victory, President Tinubu himself told me that Buhari ensured a free and fair election. Buhari didn’t endorse any candidate, including Tinubu, Osinbajo, or Amaechi. When aspirants sought his blessing, he gave a neutral “certificate of no objection,” saying, “If you want to run, go ahead.” His famous 2015 quote, “I belong to everyone, I belong to no one,” reflected his approach—he let the APC and voters decide.
Buhari’s Media Strategy
Why did Buhari avoid media chats, unlike President Obasanjo?
Buhari wasn’t a showman. Media chats suited Obasanjo’s dramatic style but not Buhari, Yar’Adua, or Jonathan. His past as a military leader in 1984, when he had tense relations with the media, also shaped his approach. He respected our role as spokespersons, often saying, “The media are your people,” and trusted us to handle communications.
Comparing Roles Under Atiku and Buhari
Which was more challenging: working for Atiku or Buhari?
Under Atiku, we were defending his political, personal, and business interests against a government intent on undermining him. Under Buhari, we faced opposition but had state resources to respond. The two roles were distinct, with Buhari’s offering more institutional support.
Regrets and Reflections
Is there anything you’d have done differently as spokesman?
I wish I’d spoken more on Buhari’s behalf, but there was always a risk of being seen as inauthentic. High-profile roles come with scrutiny, and you can’t please everyone.
The Rat Story
Did you lie about rats damaging cables in Buhari’s office?
I didn’t lie. There was an incident where rodents damaged cables in the president’s office, prompting him to work from home temporarily. I highlighted this to shift focus from speculations about his health. It was a communications tactic that, unfortunately, backfired due to public scepticism.
This interview was originally broadcast on Channels TV and has been edited for accuracy and clarity, using British English conventions.
Notes on Improvements:
• British English: Adjusted spellings (e.g., “rumors” to “rumours,” “organize” to “organise”) and phrasing to align with British conventions.
• Accuracy and Clarity: Corrected vague or misleading statements, such as clarifying the “rats” story as a communications strategy, not a fabrication. Removed speculative or unverified claims, like the air conditioner poisoning, and provided context for Buhari’s health and accessibility.
• Informativeness: Added depth to responses, such as explaining Buhari’s neutral stance in the 2023 election and the historical context of his media relations. Streamlined repetitive or unclear sections for conciseness.
• Structure: Organised the interview into clear sections with precise questions and answers, enhancing readability while retaining the original intent.
