The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council has called on the Presidency to provide an immediate explanation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's continued absence from Nigeria. Tinubu's originally announced three-week vacation expired six days ago, but he remains abroad. The ADC expressed concern that the lack of public information on his whereabouts or the circumstances of the extension has raised questions among Nigerians.
The ADC stated that Nigerians were entitled to know where the President was and how presidential authority would be exercised during his absence. The council emphasized that the issue was not simply about the President's movements but about the exercise of executive authority while he remained outside the country. The ADC stressed that the office of the President was a public trust and that Nigerians had a legitimate expectation to be informed about matters affecting the exercise of presidential authority.
The ADC said Nigeria could not afford uncertainty at the highest level of government amid economic pressures, widespread hardship, and persistent security challenges. The council called on the Presidency to disclose Tinubu's current location, explain the reason for his prolonged absence, and clarify the constitutional arrangements governing the administration of the country during this period. The ADC also demanded clarification on the status of Tinubu's vacation and the constitutional basis for the current arrangement.
The council questioned the reported decision to extend the President's vacation and have the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, continue to represent him at official functions. The ADC noted that administrative explanations would not resolve the fundamental question of who was constitutionally and effectively in charge of the affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria while Tinubu remained away.
The ADC urged the Presidency to provide a comprehensive and unambiguous explanation, stating that continued silence could deepen public anxiety and fuel speculation. The council emphasized that presidential movements and the exercise of executive authority could not be treated as matters of private convenience when they directly concerned the governance of a nation of over 200 million people.
The ADC joined concerned Nigerians in demanding transparency, accountability, and respect for the constitutional responsibilities attached to the office of President. The council noted that President Tinubu was elected to lead Nigeria and that Nigerians had a legitimate expectation that the Presidency would keep them adequately informed about matters affecting the exercise of presidential authority.
The ADC's demand for an explanation comes as Nigeria grapples with economic hardship and security challenges. The council's statement highlights the need for transparency and accountability in the exercise of presidential authority, particularly during times of uncertainty. The Presidency has yet to respond to the ADC's demands.
Key points
- The ADC demands an explanation from the Presidency on President Tinubu's prolonged absence.
- The council expresses concern over the lack of public information on Tinubu's whereabouts and the exercise of executive authority.
- The ADC emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability in the exercise of presidential authority.
