The Digest:
In his book, According to the President: Lessons from a Presidential Spokesperson’s Experience, Garba Shehu reveals how he fabricated the 2017 rat invasion story at Aso Villa to divert attention from former President Buhari’s health challenges.
Key Points:
- Garba Shehu, a former presidential spokesperson, admits that the rat invasion story was fabricated.
- The narrative was created in response to growing media inquiries about Buhari’s health in 2017.
- Shehu stated the story was meant to shift focus from the president’s illness and ability to continue in office.
- Buhari had spent months abroad for medical treatment during his first term.
- Shehu’s claims sparked widespread skepticism, with some media outlets questioning the plausibility of the rat narrative.
- Both Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Minister Lai Mohammed disagreed with Shehu’s decision.
The revelation highlights the complexities of managing public perception during a leader’s health crisis. Shehu’s strategy to shift focus was controversial but succeeded in momentarily diverting media attention.
Sources: The Cable, Premium Times
