African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has raised concerns about President Bola Tinubu's absence from the upcoming United Nations General Assembly. In a statement, Atiku questioned whether Tinubu's persistent absence from the US could be due to fears of international scrutiny. This comes after Tinubu's confirmation of his absence from the UNGA for the third consecutive year. Atiku's Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, signed the statement.
Atiku drew parallels between Tinubu's situation and that of Nicolás Maduro, the former Venezuelan president who was captured by the US in January 2026 and faces drug-trafficking charges. He asked if Tinubu was afraid of meeting a similar fate. Atiku also referenced a US court case, Case No. 93 C 4483, which involved forfeiture proceedings against funds linked to Tinubu and associated companies. The case was related to narcotics trafficking and money laundering.
The US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois instituted forfeiture proceedings concerning funds held in multiple accounts in Tinubu's name and associated companies. A sworn affidavit by an Internal Revenue Service agent stated that funds in accounts controlled by Tinubu were connected to drug-trafficking proceeds. The proceedings resulted in the forfeiture of approximately $460,000 to the US government. Atiku noted that Nigerians are entitled to ask if Tinubu's UNGA absences are related to this documented American history.
Atiku questioned why Tinubu has repeatedly avoided the UNGA since 2024, despite no announced restrictions on his travel. He asked if Tinubu was afraid of renewed scrutiny or uncomfortable appearing on American soil amid public interest in the narcotics drug-related forfeiture proceedings. Atiku emphasized that one person's personal history should not burden Nigeria's diplomatic engagement. Recent reports confirm that Tinubu will not attend the 81st UNGA in 2026, with Vice President Kashim Shettima leading Nigeria's delegation.
Atiku has previously criticized Tinubu over his absences from the 2024 and 2025 UNGA sessions. In a related development, Atiku's comments come as some Nigerians continue to express concerns about the implications of Tinubu's international engagements. The President's persistent absence from the UNGA inevitably raises questions about his administration's diplomatic efforts. Atiku's ADC has been vocal about its criticisms of the Tinubu administration.
The development has sparked mixed reactions from various stakeholders, with some calling for more transparency from the Tinubu administration. As the 81st UNGA approaches, Nigeria's diplomatic engagement will be led by Vice President Kashim Shettima. Atiku's criticisms have added to the ongoing debate about Tinubu's international engagements and the implications for Nigeria's diplomatic efforts.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar questions President Bola Tinubu's absence from UNGA, citing fears of international scrutiny.
- Tinubu's absence from UNGA raises concerns about his administration's diplomatic efforts.
- Atiku draws parallels between Tinubu's situation and that of Nicolás Maduro, the former Venezuelan president.
