Nigerian president Umaru Yar'Adua returned under cover of darkness today after three months of medical treatment in Saudi Arabia, reviving uncertainty over the leadership of Africa's most populous nation.
Vice president Goodluck Jonathan will continue to run affairs of state, however, as Mr Yar'Adua recuperates, but the secrecy of his return raised concern that the 58-year-old leader's health will remain too frail for him to resume office.
"President Yar'Adua wishes to reassure all Nigerians that on account of their unceasing prayers and by the special grace of God, his health has greatly improved," Yar'Adua's spokesman said in a statement.
But Mr Yar'Adua was whisked by ambulance from Abuja airport in the early hours today under tight security. There was no inspection of the presidential guard or formal reception by dignitaries as might be expected after such a long absence.
"The secrecy that shrouded his packaged return is a prima facie evidence that President Yar'Adua is incapable of exercising executive powers," the CNPP opposition grouping said. "We demand to see our president."
Analysts say those close to Mr Yar'Adua, including his powerful wife Turai, have grown concerned about Mr Jonathan's assertive behaviour since he assumed executive powers two weeks ago and wanted him back quickly, raising the prospect of a power tussle.
After a hurriedly summoned cabinet briefing, Information Minister Dora Akunyili said the vice president had spoken to Mr Yar'Adua's aides and would meet his wife later today.
The return of Mr Yar'Adua and his aides could limit Mr Jonathan's room to address priorities he set out such as the amnesty for rebels in the oil-producing Niger Delta, improving power supplies, ensuring fair elections and fighting corruption.
Reuters