The Presidency says an elder statesman, Tanko Yakasai, should not be taken seriously for criticising President Muhammadu Buhari over his non-appearance at the presidential campaign rally of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2023 general election.

The Presidency said Yakasai is unknown in the APC, stressing that President Buhari’s support for the party’s presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, is unquestionable.

It said this via a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, on Wednesday.

Shehu added that Yakasai’s questioning of the loyalties of Buhari was in sharp contrast to the actions of the President.

READ ALSO: Tinubu in Ogun: I’ll create 1m jobs in 2 years, end fuel crisis

The presidential spokesman noted: “Alhaji Tanko Yakasai is unknown to the All Progressives Congress, APC. Everyone is entitled to their view, but what we do know is that his insight in a recent interview does not come from within the party or the President’s team. His support for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is welcome although it is difficult to see what value it will add.

“He is right to highlight his experience as a senior citizen, a leader in government, and ability to reach out across divides are strong foundations for the highest office.

“But Yakasai’s questioning of the loyalties of President Muhammadu Buhari stands in sharp contrast to the actions of the President. Only on Monday, he was out at a rally in Bauchi supporting the flag bearer of the party. Presidential duties permitting, he is scheduled to make further appearances at campaign events in the coming weeks.

“His support for the party’s candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu is unquestioned.

“If this wasn’t on TV, Yakasai’s unwise comment on the issue would have been dismissed as a misquotation. But he was live on TV.

“On this one against President Buhari, no one should take him seriously. Perhaps times are hard and the old man needs a bit of help.”

The Star