The Royal Institute of International Affairs, better known as Chattam House, has confirmed that presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Maj. Gen Muhammadu Buhari(retd.), will be speaking at its event billed for Thursday in London.
This was contained in a statement on Monday by the Directorate of Media and Publicity, APC Presidential Campaign Organisation, Garba Shehu.
A post on the website of Chattam House on Monday stated that Buhari, who is on a working visit to the United Kingdom, would speak on the topic ‘Prospects for Democratic Consolidation in Africa: Nigeria’s Transition’.
The programme, to be chaired by former British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Sir Richard Gozney, will commence at 10am London time and last for just one hour.
“The postponement of Nigeria’s fifth election since its return to civilian rule in 1999, together with fierce political competition, a security crisis and severe economic challenges linked to the drop in oil price, have thrown into sharp relief the challenges of conducting this essential process in such a complex environment.
“While there is widespread speculation as to the reasons for the delay, there is also widespread acknowledgment of the necessity that national elections do now take place as scheduled on 28 March,” Chatam House said in its website while announcing the programme on Monday.
“General Muhammadu Buhari, former military ruler (1983-85) and now opposition presidential candidate, will discuss the importance of democracy for Africa’s future, and in particular why delivering dividends of elected government matter both to Nigeria and internationally.”
The statement added, “There would be a live streaming of the event commencing at 10am GMT and all those wishing to pose a question to General Buhari are advised to do so via Twitter, using the hash tag#CHAfrica.”
Source: Punch
