President Tinubu Returns Tomorrow, Amidst Widespread Outcry Over Prolonged Absence
The special adviser on information and strategy to Nigeria’s President, Bayo Onanuga announced today that President Tinubu and the retinue of aides will arrive back to Nigeria on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. The information was passed across via his X (formerly Twitter) handle.
The absence of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from the country since April has sparked a significant outcry among citizens and political commentators. President Tinubu, who was last seen attending the World Economic Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, which concluded on April 29, has not returned to Nigeria, leading to widespread speculation and concern.
The president’s extended absence has ignited a political debate, with many questioning the transparency of the presidency regarding his whereabouts. The lack of official communication has only fueled rumors and uncertainty. This situation is exacerbated by Vice President Kashim Shettima’s expected simultaneous absence, as he was to attend the US-Africa Business Summit in Dallas, USA.
Amidst the growing controversies, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Tunji Alausa, addressed the nation, assuring that President Tinubu’s absence is not due to medical reasons. He emphasized the president’s good health and dismissed speculations about medical trips to Europe. Despite these assurances, the silence from the presidency has not quelled the public’s demand for clarity.
The situation raises questions about the leadership’s accountability and the governance of the country during the leaders’ absence. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed his concern, stating that it is unprecedented for both the president and vice president to be away simultaneously, especially during challenging times for the nation.
As Nigerians await the return of their president, the outcry reflects deeper issues of trust and governance that the current administration will need to address upon President Tinubu’s return.
