Buhari Bars Gov’t Officials, Others From Paying Him Christmas Homage

President Muhammadu Buhari has barred government officials and religious leaders, amongst others, from paying him homage as Christians around the country mark the 2020 Christmas celebration.

Buhari said the directive was necessary to avoid contravening established protocols against the further spread of COVID-19. 

The president gave the directive in a statement by his senior media assistant, Garba Shehu, on the eve of Christmas. 

Shehu said, “In line with the prevailing protocol put in place by the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, restricting large gatherings, President Muhammadu Buhari will not be hosting the usual Christmas homage by religious and community leaders in the Federal Capital Territory.

“The President urges all citizens to, in line with the prescribed protocol, observe social distancing, use face masks, wash hands frequently and avoid overcrowding of public spaces, markets, shopping centres, offices and places of worship.

“President Buhari equally appeals to citizens to discourage all non-essential travels during the holiday season.

“He wishes everyone a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year ahead.”