In a development with significant political implications,
Nigeria’s First Lady Aisha Buhari on Wednesday evening arrived in Washington DC
on a weeklong visit. She is billed to attend a number of events in the
area. Sources at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington DC said Mrs. Buhari arrived
on a British Airways flight from London.
Sources at the Nigerian Embassy in Washington DC said Mrs. Buhari
arrived on a British Airways flight from London.
Her visit is of tremendous interest in Nigeria where Ekiti State
governor Ayodele Fayose alleged in June that Mrs. Buhari was involved in the
infamous Halliburton scandal, and is the “Aisha Buhari” mentioned in related
court documents.
Our investigations show that there is no “Aisha Buhari” mentioned
in the Halliburton scandal. However, there is one mentioned in the case
of former United States congressman William Jefferson, who was convicted on
corruption charges in 2009, and to whom “Aisha Buhari” wired the sum of
$170,000. It is to that matter the governor mistakenly appears to
allude.
On several occasions, Governor Fayose asserted that Mrs. Buhari
could not enter the US, suggesting she would be arrested, a bluff she has now
called. Investigations by SaharaReporters and the New York Times have
categorically stated that the Aisha Buhari mentioned in the court document in
reference is not President Buhari's wife. Nonetheless, Mrs. Buhari has
sued Governor Fayose concerning his allegations.
According to an official invitation letter to her, obtained by
SaharaReporters, Mrs. Buhari was expected to have arrived in the United Stastes
two days ago, but was held back by official delays in Nigeria.
Among others, she is expected during her visit to attend meetings
at the George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. She will also be
hosted by the United States Institute of Peace, in collaboration with Voice of
America, and attend the 25th Anniversary celebration of Zumunta Association USA
Inc.
(C) Sahara Reporters
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