TheCable

President Muhammadu Buhari has asked the United States to ensure its sources of information about the country cuts across all areas.

The president said this on Tuesday in Abuja when he received letters of credence from Mary Leonard, US ambassador to Nigeria.

On Saturday, the US had placed Nigeria on its special watch-list (SWL) for governments that have engaged in or tolerated severe violations of religious freedom.

The president said the listing of Nigeria for human rights concerns created an impression that some people were being unfairly treated or marginalised in the country.

Buhari said some people might provide misleading and manipulative narratives about Nigeria for self-serving purposes, while ignoring the larger picture of a united country.

“I know that those with access have created an impression of being marginalised,” Garba Shehu, presidential spokesperson, quoted Buhari to have said.

“I sit here with a clear conscience. I took an oath and I am honouring the office. It is not an easy task to work for the unity of the country, and I am doing my best. During your stay in the country I am asking you to ensure that your sources of strategic information cut across.”

The president urged the envoy to use the opportunity of her posting to Nigeria to get the facts on the country.