In his book, ‘Working with Buhari: Reflections of a Special Adviser, Media and Publicity (2015-2023),’ Femi Adesina, who served as the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to former President Muhammadu Buhari, dismissed the ridiculous rumor of a clone called ‘Jubril of Sudan’ taking the place of his ex-principal.
Adesina shared this revelation during the book presentation in Abuja on Tuesday.
He explained that the speculation gained momentum after Buhari’s return from a medical trip in August 2021, leading to doubts about the authenticity of the former President’s identity.
Adesina also recalled attending the wedding of the daughter of a former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Gabriel Olonisakin on the day of Buhari’s return.
“For such outings, you needed the full Yoruba agbada, with cap to match. That was what I wore. From church and reception, I went straight to the airport, as the President was billed to land about 4 p.m. And when he did, we formed the usual reception line,” Adesina wrote.
The former aide stated that Buhari shook hands with everyone, and when it got to his turn, the ex-military leader complimented him, saying, “Adesina, this is the best I have seen you dressed,” and they laughed at the joke as Buhari was fond of wisecracks.
Adesina added, “When later, some people began to spread unfounded stories that the man that returned to the country on that August 19 was not the real Buhari, but a clone, named Jubril of Sudan, I just found it preposterous, even otiose.”
He queried that if the “person was a certain Jubril, how did he know my name, and commenting on my dressing?”
“Pathetic people. Pitiable,” he added.
Adesina further stated that Buhari was lovable among the people as this was evident when he rode through the airport to the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
He added that with the warm reception shown to Buhari on that day, if he had contested for office again, he would win.
“The ride from Murtala Muhammed Airport to the Presidential Villa on that day was what showed me that the President would win an election if he ran again.
“Many times, the crowd was so uncontrollable that they seized the road and forced the convoy to a crawl. They were simply overjoyed to have their President back, a man they loved so much” the book read.
