Senate President Godswill Akpabio has stated that there is no vacancy in the Nigerian presidency, despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's extended working vacation abroad. Speaking in Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio emphasized that Tinubu remains in power and continues to direct the country's affairs. He made these comments amidst public debate over the absence of both Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima from Nigeria.
Akpabio rejected suggestions that he was acting president, stressing that there was no constitutional vacancy in the presidency. He clarified his role as Senate President and Chairman of the National Assembly, stating that he was not the acting president because Tinubu was still in power. According to Akpabio, Tinubu's absence from Nigeria should not be interpreted as an absence from governance.
The Senate President cited Tinubu's recent engagement in France with French President Emmanuel Macron as evidence that the President had remained active in official affairs while away from Nigeria. He mentioned that Tinubu had discussed bilaterals with Macron to bring benefits back to Nigeria. Akpabio also noted that Tinubu's vice president, Shettima, had attended the United Nations General Assembly on his behalf.
Akpabio further emphasized that the issue of a vacancy could only arise if the relevant constitutional process was triggered. He stated that as Chairman of the National Assembly, he was the only person who could speak on behalf of the assembly and declare a vacancy. Currently, Akpabio said, there was no vacancy in the presidency.
The Senate President maintained that Tinubu was still exercising presidential authority despite being outside the country. He noted that with modern technology, instructions could be given from anywhere, and therefore, there was no reason for concern. Akpabio's comments came after renewed public debate over the absence of both Tinubu and Shettima from Nigeria.
Tinubu left Nigeria on August 30 for a working vacation in Europe and has extended his stay by a few days. According to Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu was expected to return to Nigeria at the weekend. During his absence, Tinubu had remained in contact with officials in Nigeria and continued to direct the affairs of government.
The Presidency cited Tinubu's directive for an independent investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in Minna as an example of his continued governance from abroad. With this, Akpabio's statement reaffirms that Tinubu's absence does not affect the country's governance.
Key points
- President Bola Tinubu remains in power and directs Nigeria's affairs despite his extended working vacation abroad.
- Senate President Godswill Akpabio rejects suggestions of a vacancy in the presidency.
- Tinubu continues to engage in official duties from abroad, including a recent meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron.
