Garba Shehu, former presidential spokesperson to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has revealed striking examples of Buhari’s integrity in office. According to his newly released memoir, According to the President, Buhari refused a ₦400 million proposal to purchase five new armoured Mercedes-Benz S-600 vehicles, choosing instead to keep former President Jonathan’s fleet. He also sent back a diamond-studded wristwatch—complete with the president’s image—politely rejecting the lavish gift.
Shehu unveiled these stories during the book launch on July 10, 2025, in Abuja. He detailed how Buhari intervened when informed that 10 percent “kickbacks” had been built into contracts by a major construction firm. Buhari bluntly rejected the corrupt practice and banned kickbacks in government contracts.
One memorable anecdote describes a delegation from the contractor asking to “build homes, buy cars, and cover overseas medical expenses” for officials using public contracts. Buhari, in response, demanded accurate project costing and insisted that their contracts be stripped of padding. After his stern message, “an eerie silence” followed—no one dared argue.
The diamond watch incident involved Nigerian-American designer Chris Aire, who gifted the luxurious timepiece. Buhari praised Aire’s global success but instructed Shehu to politely return the watch—a move emblematic of his commitment to transparency and modesty.
Buhari’s decision to reject the ₦400 million armoured vehicles stemmed from his question: “What is wrong with the cars left behind by the former President?” Even after one of the older vehicles broke down en route to the airport, Buhari opted for continued use of the existing fleet.
Shehu also highlighted Buhari’s efforts to slash the State House’s ₦10 million monthly catering budget. Rather than accepting a raise, Buhari inspected his meals and demanded the budget be reduced—showing personal austerity and fiscal responsibility.
These episodes reinforce Buhari’s image in Garba Shehu’s book as a leader unwilling to tolerate corruption from within and resolute against extravagant state spending. According to the President outlines these lessons as vital examples for future officeholders, underscoring accountability, humility, and principled governance.
