Buhari begins second term in silence

President Muhammadu Buhari has been sworn in for a second term of four years following his re-election in the last presidential election.

But his oath-taking at Eagle Square Abuja on Wednesday was not followed by the usual inauguration speech which has apparently been reserved for June 12, the newly approved Democracy Day.

The president had earlier indicated that the inauguration would be low keyed while the celebration of Democracy Day would be elaborate with world leaders invited to grace the occasion.

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His address was consequently not listed as part of the programme for the inauguration event.

Buhari was sworn in at 10:42 am, shortly after Vice President Osinbajo had taken his oath.

The oaths were administered on them by the Acting Chief Justice of the Federation, Justice Mohammed Tanko,  witnessed by the wives, Aisha and Dolapo respectively.

The President signed the Oath Register, before witnessing the symbolic lowering of the Nigerian and Defence flags and hoisting of new ones by the military.

This was followed by the military 21-gun salute after which the President was driven around the Square in an open vehicle.

He inspected the military guard of honour mounted by men and officers of the Nigerian Army, Navy, Airforce and Police.

Security around Eagle Square was beefed up for the event as heavily armed operatives were distributed at strategic points to avert breach of peace.

The inauguration was graced by many dignitaries from all walks of life including Governors Godwin Obaseki of Edo State and Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, and former Governor of Zamfara State, Abdulaziz Yari.