In reaction to a threat to her life by Bauchi-based Islamic cleric Sunusi Abubakar, first lady Remi Tinubu has said she is too old to be afraid of death.
The 63-year-old stated this on Tuesday at the palace of Emir of Bauchi, Rilwanu Adamu.
Mrs Tinubu visited Bauchi to commission Alternative High School and ICT Centre.
Abubakar earlier described the first lady as an infidel who should be killed. His comment was widely condemned.
Speaking at the palace, Tinubu thanked Governor Bala Mohammed for assuring her of her safety.
“I want to thank His Excellency for assuring me that I am safe but what I said is that I am too old to be afraid,” she said.
Islamic cleric threatens Remi Tinubu in viral video
“If God has granted me 60 years, I think I shouldn’t be afraid of death but I thank God I had the courage to come. Nigeria belongs to all of us and this is the time to unite more than ever before.
“Nigeria needs prayers and we believe that God will answer our prayers. I am here today to perform official duty and also pay my Royal respect to His Royal Highness the Emir of Bauchi and to thank him for the warm reception we received today which is a great honour to me and I truly appreciate that.”
Mohammed earlier apologised to the first lady for the cleric’s threat.
He said, “…I am aware of some of the challenges and threat to your life and person by somebody from this state. I was so disappointed and frustrated; but you made my day, as a courageous mother, you decided to come to Bauchi.
“Your Royal Highness, this distinguished lady has really shown that Nigeria is working, Nigeria is one and nobody can play politics with our lives. We are grateful and you are more important to us than our own lives and nothing will happen to you and we will deal with him and Allah will deal with him by the grace of God.
“On behalf of the Royal Highness and the people of Bauchi, we apologise for the national embarrassment; it will not happen again.”
The cleric has since apologised for his statement.
