A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, Ladan Salihu, has criticized President Bola Tinubu for leaving Nigeria on "autopilot" during his prolonged stay in Europe. Tinubu returned to Nigeria on September 29 after a four-week absence. He initially traveled to London on August 30 for a three-week annual vacation before moving to Paris. Salihu described the extended stay as "contempt of leadership on the led."
Salihu made the remarks on Channels Television's The Morning Brief, citing reports of killings and kidnappings in parts of the country during Tinubu's absence. He specifically referred to the reported killing of 37 miners in Niger State and alleged attacks and abductions in Zamfara State. According to Salihu, the President should have returned to Nigeria to directly address the situation.
The ADC chieftain also faulted the lack of direct communication from Tinubu while he was abroad. Salihu argued that the President could have addressed Nigerians through a video message following reports of deaths and insecurity. Instead, he said that people in the Villa, including Bayo Onanuga, were replying to Nigerians on his behalf.
Tinubu's absence also attracted criticism over his failure to personally attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. Vice President Kashim Shettima represented Nigeria at the gathering and delivered the country's national statement on the President's behalf. The Presidency defended the arrangement, saying Shettima had Tinubu's full mandate to represent the country.
During his time in France, Tinubu held a private dinner with French President Emmanuel Macron and met business leaders, including Vincent Bolloré and Femi Otedola. He also witnessed the signing of an agreement between the Ogun State Government and DP World on the development of the Gateway Deep Sea Port and a Blue Marine Economic Zone.
The Presidency defended Tinubu's remote leadership, saying he remained in contact with officials and continued directing government affairs. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga maintained that Tinubu was in touch with officials while he was away. On his return to Lagos, Tinubu dismissed concerns about his health, saying he was "healthy, sound, and ready to go."
The President is expected to participate in activities marking Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary in Lagos on October 1. Salihu's criticism is one of several reactions to Tinubu's extended stay abroad. The issue has sparked a national debate about leadership and the management of the country's affairs.
Key points
- President Tinubu's four-week Europe stay sparked criticism over leadership and communication.
- The ADC chieftain, Ladan Salihu, described the extended stay as "contempt of leadership on the led."
- Tinubu's absence coincided with security challenges, including killings and kidnappings in parts of the country.
