President Muhammadu Buhari who observed Eid-el-Fitr prayer today at the Abuja central Eid praying ground along Airport road was almost mobbed by ecstatic Muslims who breached security and protocol in a bid to catch a glimpse of him.The incident occurred even as security personnel battle to shield the President as they were almost overwhelmed by the jubilant youths.
President Buhari who managed to wriggle out of the situation later narrated his experience when he hosted some residents of Abuja, who paid him Sallah homage at the Aso Presidential Villa, Abuja.
“Today, during and immediately after the prayers, I think I was bombarded by the youths who almost overwhelmed the security.
“I had to hold tight to my gown to get to my car, and I was advised to enter the car from the ADC’s side and I refused. I went across trying to wave my hand to the wild youths who wanted to see me.
“On an occasion like this, it shows that after what happened to President Ronald Reagan of the USA, it is only God almighty that protects leaders; because in a mob like this, anybody with a sharp knife can get access and do a lot of damage.
“So, all the policemen and soldiers that were deployed since six o’clock in the morning before I came out two hours later in the rains cannot protect you; only God protects. I hope God will continue to protect us.”
The delegation was led by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Capital Territory Administration, Obinna Chukwu, with Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, in attendance.
Addressing members of the delegation, the President thanked them for their “loyalty to the country, as represented by our institutions and to the system.”
President Buhari congratulated members of the delegation for being privileged among thousands others out there, for meeting him and shaking hands with him at the Presidential Villa without hassles.
“I congratulate you for the privilege you have which is only you residents of the FCT that have the privilege to come and meet me and shake hands with me and take picture with me, other Nigerians are envious of you if you don’t know it.”
The President was presented with a giant Sallah greeting card by the delegation, which also included the John Cardinal Onaiyekan of the Catholic Church; Senator Philip Aduda; Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Arase; National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno; ?and former Army Chief, Abdurahman Dambazzau.[myad]
