Nigeria: President Yar\'Adua receiving treatment in Saudi Arabia

(SomaliNet) A source in the presidency said on Sunday that Nigerian President Umaru Yar\'Adua is receiving medical treatment in Saudi Arabia, reviving concern over his health and ability to govern.

The Nigerian leader, known to have a chronic kidney problem, travelled to Saudi Arabia two weeks ago for Umrah pilgrimage. He has cancelled a state visit to Brazil which he had planned to make after the Muslim pilgrimage.

\"He is receiving some medical attention in Saudi Arabia,\" a source in the presidency told reporters, asking not to be named and giving no further details.

Some Nigerian newspapers reported on Sunday that the president had undergone a renal transplant in Jeddah.

Many voices, including opposition politicians, have expressed concern over Yar\'adua\'s health and the government\'s handling of the issue.

Yar\'Adua\'s victory in April 2007 polls has been challenged at the Supreme Court by his two main rivals. Should he become unable to govern there could be a constitutional crisis in Africa\'s leading oil producer.-Gulf news and Agencies