President Muhammadu Buhari has told government contractors to assist their communities and not give him cheques as kickbacks.
Gatekeepers News reports that President Muhammadu Buhari has pointedly told government contractors coming to him not to give him cheques as kickbacks but rather commit the money to the public good.
Buhari made this known during his visit to the Emir of Daura, Dr. Umar Faruk Umar, at his palace before returning to Abuja on Friday.
According to a statement by presidential spokesman, Garba Shehu, President Buhari told government contractors to give back to society through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
The President said pointedly, “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.”
Buhari stated that he would love to visit his hometown – Daura more frequently, but the high cost of presidential movements and exposure of security personnel to the weather has stopped him. He, therefore, assured that his heart remains with the people.
The President, “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 want it to be used to better our schools, clinics, and hospitals.”
The President added that the grace of God has kept Nigeria, “We want to thank God always for keeping us together as a country. From January 15, 1966, the country was thrown into a 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.”
The Emir of Daura, in his remarks, appreciated the President for always creating time to visit his hometown and the palace despite the tight schedule.
“Your visit to Daura reflects your good character which we are very proud of. I can assure you that men, women, children, marketers, and artisans are always pleased to receive you and they will be praying for you.
“Today is not for speeches but for appreciation. We have been blessed so much as a community because you are the leader of the country. You have brought honour to our domain.
”As a community, we have benefited a lot with increased traffic of people and organisations coming to help us here. We know it’s because of you.
“May the good Lord always go before you and behind you, and remove all obstacles from your path,” he added.
The Emir, therefore, urged the President to remain focused on getting results particularly in securing the country.
“Nigeria is lucky to have you at this time. I am not saying it to please you, but if you had not been in power it would have been very difficult. I doubt if we will be here today.”
