The Presidency says it will not release the names of foreign presidents “eager” to attend the May 29 swearing-in of President-elect Bola Tinubu, insisting that the inauguration of Mr Tinubu and Vice-President-elect Kashim Shettima remains “sacrosanct.”
The secretary to the government of the federation, Boss Mustapha, said this when he addressed a world news conference to kick-start the inauguration activities on Thursday in Abuja.
Mr Mustapha said many foreign heads of state had indicated interest in attending the inauguration. However, he did not mention the names of those who had confirmed attendance, citing security reasons.
“Diplomatic privileges will not allow us to announce the number of presidents or who is coming because of the precarious times we are in today,” stated Mr Mustapha. “However, there is enthusiasm and eagerness to come and support Nigeria to sustain its democracy. So we have a responsibility to get it right.”
Mr Mustapha, the chairman of the presidential transition council, said the ongoing litigation at the election tribunal would not affect the swearing-in of the president-elect and the vice-president-elect.
“Without any fear of contradiction, there will be inauguration on May 29. This is not the first time. During the election of former President Shehu Shagari, there was litigation, but the country went ahead with the inauguration,” the SGF explained.
“Also, During the election of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, there was litigation, but we continued with the swearing-in. It was only former President Goodluck Jonathan that did not take the route of litigation.”
Mr Mustapha added, “So, as long as the Lord tarries, there will be inauguration.”
The PTC chairman said the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act made adequate provisions on how to go about litigation arising from elections.
The May 29 presidential inauguration will be the seventh consecutive democratic transition of power in Nigeria. The day will also usher in the 16th president of the country.
(NAN)
