By Milcah Tanimu

Femi Adesina, the ex-Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to former President Muhammadu Buhari, has categorically labeled the rumors surrounding Buhari’s alleged clone, dubbed ‘Jubril of Sudan,’ as ludicrous. Adesina made this assertion in his recently launched book, titled ‘Working with Buhari: Reflections of a Special Adviser, Media and Publicity (2015 – 2023),’ presented in Abuja last Tuesday.

Adesina recounted that the unfounded speculation gained traction following Buhari’s return from a medical trip in August 2021. According to the former presidential aide, the rumor suggested that the returning President was not the authentic Buhari but an imposter named ‘Jubril of Sudan.’

In his book, Adesina shared a personal anecdote from the day of Buhari’s return, highlighting a compliment from the President about his attire. He questioned the absurdity of the clone claim, emphasizing the President’s familiarity with him and their shared laughter during the encounter.

Expressing disdain for the baseless allegations, Adesina wondered how the supposed clone, ‘Jubril,’ could have known his name and commented on his dressing. He dismissed the claims as “preposterous” and “otiose,” denouncing those who propagated such narratives as “pathetic people” deserving of pity.

Adesina also praised Buhari’s popularity, citing the warm reception the President received during his journey from Murtala Muhammed Airport to the Presidential Villa in Abuja. According to Adesina, the overwhelming joy of the crowd demonstrated Buhari’s widespread appeal, leading him to believe that the President would have won another election had he chosen to run again.

The book further revealed instances where Buhari resisted calls to dismiss the embattled Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele, amid speculations about his presidential aspirations in the 2023 general election. Additionally, Buhari expressed a preference for extraditing Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, to face trial in Nigeria rather than resorting to lethal measures.