President Muhammadu Buhari has told contractors in the country to hold back their cheques as he doesn’t need it.
The President said this on Friday July 23, as he visited Emir of Daura, Dr Umar Faruk Umar before departing for Abuja.
Buhari in a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, said these contractors should engage in community development instead.
He said;
“I don’t want your cheque. Go and assist our communities” instead of trying to return kickbacks to public officers, including his office.
“We don’t want cheques from anyone or organisation as returns or influence of any kind. Let them remember their Corporate Social Responsibilities.”
The President who noted that the grace of God had kept Nigeria together as a country in spite of differences that led to a 30-month civil war, also revealed that he would love to visit Daura more frequently but for the high cost of presidential movements and exposing security personnel to the weather.
He said;
“We are known for farming and I have my farm here. I could come every two weeks and no one can stop me.
“But the cost to the movement is high. I would rather that it be used to better our schools, clinics and hospitals.
“We want to thank God always for keeping us together as a country. From January 15, 1966, the country was thrown into political crisis. We had a 30 months civil war that resulted in the loss of about a million lives.
“We still thank God for keeping us together. We remain grateful to all those who showed interest in our unity and progress. May God continue to bless them.”
Buhari who also recalled fond memories of visiting the Palace as a military Head of State, expressed happiness that the warmth and hospitality of the traditional institution had been sustained over the years.
