Is Buhari really dead? Twitter tries to answer

Another round of discussions over the health of Nigeria’s president Muhammadu Buhari sparks social media attention with people wondering of whether he will return or not, some sites came out to say he was dead. From last night, people were Tweeting on this without any definite answer.

Last week, President Buhari left for London further medical attention leaving Vice president Yemi Osinbajo as acting president. The news of his departure came just minutes after an organized reception for 82 schoolgirls, who were released in a negotiated deal swap after being held by Boko Haram Islamists for more than three years.

Concern came about because since his return in March this year, the 74 year old leaders has not been seen in public as was expected of his duties.

President Buhari had warned Nigerians when he returned from nearly two months of medical treatment in London that he was likely to have go back for further treatment. Questions also arise on how long he will be away compared to his last visit in London.

According to AFP, President Buhari’s spokesman Femi Adesina announced that Buhari's doctors would determine how long he was away, making his absence open-ended.

"I have absolute confidence that government will continue to run smoothly while I'm away," Buhari wrote on his Twitter account after formally handing over power to his deputy.

Buhari has been under pressure to disclose the nature of his illness. He has missed three of the last four cabinet meetings and other engagements.

His appearance at Friday prayers last week and Sunday's carefully stage-managed photo-call with the Chibok girls were rare public outings and even then, still at the presidential villa.

The former military ruler already rapier thin appeared painfully gaunt.

Political allies and his wife, Aisha, have played down rumours he is too ill to rule.

"From what I can see, the president remains at the helm and his policies are being implemented," Bola Tinubu, head of Buhari's ruling All Progressives Congress party, said on Sunday.

But observers said that is up for debate, especially when it comes to Buhari's signature war against corruption, where he has been both the driving force and figurehead.

"Buhari has been instrumental to the success of the current war against corruption," said Debo Adeniran, of the Coalition Against Corrupt Leaders lobby group.

"A protracted stay in London will definitely reduce the momentum. Apart from individuals, state institutions involved in the fight may slow down because Buhari is not around."

An official statement on Buhari’s health statement is yet to be confirmed by officials.