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Nigeria's President Buhari Returns Following Extended Medical Leave

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In this photo released by the Nigeria State House, Nigeria President Muhammadu Buhari speaks at the presidential palace upon his arrival from medical vacation in Abuja, Nigeria, March 10, 2017.
In this photo released by the Nigeria State House, Nigeria President Muhammadu Buhari speaks at the presidential palace upon his arrival from medical vacation in Abuja, Nigeria, March 10, 2017.

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has returned to the Nigerian capital of Abuja following an extended stay in London to treat an undisclosed illness. He's been away since May 7, and some Nigerians were beginning to demand Buhari return to work or step down from office.

His supporters lined up to greet him along the road leading away from the airport, and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who has been acting president, was on hand at the airport for Buhari's return.

Buhari first left Nigeria in January to receive treatment in Britain, staying nearly two months before returning in March, only to leave again in early May.

During both absences Buhari temporarily passed executive power to his vice president, Yemi Osinbajo.

Earlier this week, protesters held rallies in the capital of Abuja carrying banners that read "Resume or Resign." There were similar demonstrations is Lagos.

On Tuesday, Buhari supporters clashed with some of the demonstrators at a market in Abuja, local media reported.

The statement announcing Buhari's return also said the president will speak to Nigerians in a broadcast Monday morning.

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    Reuters

    Reuters is a news agency founded in 1851 and owned by the Thomson Reuters Corporation based in Toronto, Canada. One of the world's largest wire services, it provides financial news as well as international coverage in over 16 languages to more than 1000 newspapers and 750 broadcasters around the globe.

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