The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) has called on the Presidency to provide an explanation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's continued absence from Nigeria. Tinubu was initially expected to return from his three-week vacation on September 21, 2026, but has now been away for six days beyond that date. The ADC PCC expressed concern over the lack of information on the President's whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding his extended stay abroad.
The opposition group, in a statement signed by its Director, Media and Publicity, Kola Ologbondiyan, urged the Presidency to provide information on Tinubu's current location and the reason for his prolonged absence. They also asked for clarification on the constitutional arrangements governing the country during this period, particularly given the economic challenges, insecurity, and hardship confronting Nigeria.
The ADC raised questions over reports that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, had continued to represent the President at official functions. However, the party noted that this arrangement did not address the fundamental question of who was constitutionally and effectively in charge of the country's affairs while the President remained outside Nigeria.
The ADC PCC emphasized that the issue was crucial, given the current challenges facing the country. They stressed that Nigerians were entitled to transparency and accountability concerning the exercise of presidential authority. The party also highlighted that the office of the President was a public trust, and Nigerians had a right to know where their President was and who was exercising presidential authority in his absence.
The ADC urged the Presidency to provide a comprehensive and unambiguous explanation to Nigerians, warning that continued silence could fuel speculation and public anxiety. The party emphasized that the Presidency's silence could undermine public trust in the government and its ability to manage the country's affairs effectively.
The ADC's call for transparency and accountability comes at a time when Nigeria is facing significant economic and security challenges. The party's statement reflects the concerns of many Nigerians who are seeking clarity on the President's whereabouts and the state of the country's governance.
The Presidency has yet to respond to the ADC's demands for an explanation. The situation has sparked speculation and debate among Nigerians, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability from the government.
Key points
- The ADC PCC has demanded an explanation from the Presidency over President Tinubu's prolonged absence from Nigeria.
- The President's vacation was initially expected to end on September 21, 2026, but he has now been away for six days beyond that date.
- The ADC has raised questions over the constitutional arrangements governing the country during the President's absence.