The Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello has defended his move to declare a public holiday in celebration of the president, Muhammadu Buhari’s return to the country after over 100 days abroad.
The state governor who has come under heavy criticism for the move defended his decision through the director general, media and publicity to the governor, Kingsley Fanwo.
Kingsley Fanwo in a statement released on behalf of the state governor noted that the public holiday was declared to celebrate the African icon, Muhammadu Buhari.
The added: “The public holiday was declared to celebrate an African icon, President Muhammadu Buhari, who went on a medical trip abroad and came back in good health.
“The holiday was to enable the people of Kogi State to celebrate the grace of God in bringing Mr. President back alive. It also afforded the people of the state the opportunity to pray and fast for the progress of Nigeria and for Mr. President to keep waxing stronger for the task ahead.
“It is unfortunate that those condemning it choose to take Panadol for our headache. They should join us to celebrate the Lion of Africa and stop politicising an act of patriotism on the part of the governor.
“God forbids, if Mr. President had died, many states would have declared many days of mourning. But Kogi only declared one day to thank God for saving our President’s life. Are some people angry that Mr. President is back, hale and hearty to continue to fight corruption?”