A surprise return home by Nigeria‘s President Umaru Yar’Adua prompted much confusion some even fearing a power struggle. President Yar’Adua unexpectedly returned home Wednesday from Saudi Arabia where he had been receiving medical treatment since last November.
Acting interim President Goodluck Jonathan was appointed by the country’s legislation in early February even though the president never formally relinquished power as stated by their constitution. Amid protests and fear of a coup the country’s government felt it was in their best interest to take action.
Now that the president is back home it was thought that the Vice President would enjoy a more ceremonial role. However, the information minister made it clear that Mr. Jonathan retained power. “Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, the acting president, is in charge,” Dora Akunyili told Reuters news agency.
This is a crucial decision not just for the logical reasons like showing stability, but it gives Mr. Jonathan considerable power when it comes to releasing oil funds. Now I don’t want to come out and blast Yar’Adua for being a corrupt leader, however history with African countries tells us that his actions seem shady.
I did find much to the contrary however. Like a campaign promise that Yar’Adua fulfilled of full disclosure of his assets upon becoming president. Nigeria’s economy has also become the fastest growing in the world according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Nigeria also boasts the second largest economy in Africa behind South Africa.
