By Christopher Ameh, Bauchi
BAUCHI — Former Bauchi State Governor, Dr Isa Yuguda, has dismissed reports circulating on social media that he had died, assuring Nigerians that he is alive and recovering from a recent illness.
Yuguda, who spoke on Saturday, said the false report generated widespread concern, particularly in Bauchi State, where thousands of people reportedly contacted him to confirm his condition.
The former governor disclosed that he recently underwent surgery for a back-related condition but said he had recovered and was responding well to treatment.
“I am alive. I assure you that, being human, one can fall ill at any time. I was indeed ill recently. Of course, our lives are in God’s hands; whether an illness is minor or severe, God can take a life at any moment.
“But I assure you, I am in good health. I was ill recently, but God has now restored my health,” he said.
Yuguda explained that he had been spending most of his time at home on medical advice following the surgery.
“I am mostly at home now because, following back surgery, I was instructed to rest. As one ages, the vertebrae in the back can suffer from friction caused by prolonged sitting. If things go wrong, it could lead to serious complications, including paralysis,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to God for his recovery and said he remained in good spirits despite the false report of his death.
On the source of the rumour, Yuguda said he did not consider himself to be in conflict with anyone, stressing that he harboured no ill feelings towards others.
“Regarding the rumours, I maintain that I have no enemies in this world, though, of course, they do exist. While one cannot claim to be entirely without adversaries, I personally view myself as having no enemies because I never harbour ill will towards anyone.
“Anyone who bears hostility towards me is actually acting against themselves, because I have no time for animosity towards others. I constantly pray to God to grant me a faithful end and a peaceful departure from this world. I am not in conflict with anyone,” he said.
Yuguda also thanked his supporters, well-wishers and people across the country, particularly residents of Bauchi State, for their concern and prayers.
He said the number of calls he received following the false report was overwhelming and forced him to temporarily switch off his telephone.
“More than 10,000 people from Bauchi were calling me to verify the situation. There were so many calls that I had to switch off my phone.
“This is truly a reason to thank God because it shows that one has left a positive legacy,” he said.
The former governor appreciated Muslims and Christians across Nigeria for their concern, saying many people in Bauchi became emotional after hearing the rumour and only became convinced of his safety after hearing his voice.
“The people of Bauchi gathered in large numbers, and some were even weeping. It was only after they heard my voice that they believed I was alive.
“I thank God and pray that He rewards them with goodness,” Yuguda said.
The post Yuguda dismisses death rumour, says he’s recovering appeared first on Vanguard News.