Wife of the President, Aisha Buhari, has described as baseless and mischievous, a report by online news platform, Sahara Reporters, linking her with allegations of abuse of privileges at the Nigerian High Commission in London.
Mrs. Buhari made this known in a statement by her media aide, Adebisi Olumide-Ajayi, in Abuja on Friday.
Sahara Reporters, in a story published on Thursday, alleged that the Nigerian High Commission in London spends a minimum of £7,000 for hospitality every time Mrs. Buhari visits the UK.
According to the news media, the President’s wife visited the UK more than seven times in 2016.
“It was not in the interest of Mrs. Buhari to join issues with anyone, but necessary to put the record in proper perspective,” the statement read.
“This is necessary as it concerns her trip to UK and the Nigerian High Commission in London.
“Mrs. Buhari had never travelled with a large entourage to London as reported by the Sahara Reporters.
“The Nigerian High Commission in London had never offered any favour either in cash or material to Mrs. Buhari.”
Accusing Sahara Reporters of attempting to embarrass the President’s family, Mrs Buhari said the reports of her activities are easily available for any reporter not driven by mischief.
“Mrs. Buhari would have ignored the publication like all such baseless accusations, but for the angle with which the report was presented has a corruption and abuse of privileges connotation,” the statement continued.
“This, however, negates the fundamental principles upon which Buhari’s administration thrives.
“It is on record that the Nigerian High Commission in London did not receive Aisha Buhari at the Airport with any official distinction or privilege as it was accorded other first ladies before her.
“She never complained or raised dust about any of these act by the High Commission because of the understanding as clearly spelt out and practiced by her husband.
“That public office must be separated from the private lives of the occupants.
“Even her drivers are privately arranged without any recourse to embassy for staff,” the statement said.
