President Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday said he had not directed any government agency to stop anybody, including officials of past administrations, from travelling abroad.

He said former government officials, including ministers, were entitled to their full rights and privileges under the nation’s Constitution.

He therefore warned that they must not be subjected to any undue harassment and intimidation at the airports or at other points of entry and exit.

Buhari made the clarification in a statement by the Head of his media team, Garba Shehu, in Abuja.

Shehu said the President made the clarification while reacting to some cases of ‘V.I.P stoppages’ at the airports as reported to him on Saturday.

He quoted Buhari as directing all government agencies to carry out their duties in full compliance with extant rules, regulations and the Constitution of the country.

“Unless otherwise directed by the courts, no law-abiding citizens should be barred from travelling abroad.

“We must treat fellow citizens with courtesy and respect.

“Officials at the borders and other points of entry and exit should conduct their affairs in strict compliance with due process.

“No one has my permission to bar anyone from travelling abroad,” Buhari said.