Amid mounting insecurity and intensifying criticism from opposition figures, the Presidency has issued a defense of President Bola Tinubu’s extended stay overseas, dismissing accusations that he is neglecting his duties.
The statement emphasized that the president continues to actively govern, despite his near two-week absence.
The President is expected to return after the Easter holidays.
Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, clarified that the president, who had recently traveled from Paris to London, remains engaged in national governance and is in “constant communication with key government officials.”
He also noted that the President has issued directives to security chiefs to address emerging threats in parts of Nigeria, including those in Benue and Plateau states, where the escalation of killings has drawn concern from opposition leaders.
Both Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, who were rivals to Tinubu in the 2023 presidential race, have criticized the President’s prolonged absence and called for his immediate return.
In response, Onanuga assured the public that the President’s absence is temporary and within the two-week timeframe communicated earlier.
“The President left Paris for London at the weekend and has maintained constant communication with key government officials, overseeing critical national matters, including directives to security chiefs to address emerging threats in some parts of the country,” he said.
He added that the President will resume duties at Aso Villa after the Easter break, emphasizing that the administration continues to function effectively.
Meanwhile, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, expressed appreciation for the Northern Traditional Rulers’ stand against the increasing insecurity in the country.
During the 7th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council in Maiduguri, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, alongside other regional traditional leaders, condemned the persistent killings and violence in the region, highlighting the need for stronger action from both politicians and security forces.
Obi praised the rulers’ courage and their collective stance, stating on his X account: “I would like to sincerely thank the Northern Traditional Rulers for their courageous and timely emergency declaration of the security situation in the region. I cannot agree less with them that ‘Enough is Enough’ regarding the persistent killings and insecurity plaguing our nation.”
He emphasized the importance of working closely with traditional leaders to find lasting solutions to the security issues facing the country.
“The stance of the Northern Traditional Rulers serves as a clarion call to all stakeholders. We must unite, irrespective of political affiliations, to implement lasting solutions that address the root causes of our nation’s challenges,” Obi urged.
Additionally, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) called for a renewed collective effort to tackle insecurity.
In a statement issued during the Easter season, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, CAN’s chairman, highlighted the urgency of addressing the violence, particularly in Plateau and Benue states.
He called for a new strategic approach to security, trauma-healing initiatives, and compensation for victims of violence.
Despite these growing concerns, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, reassured Nigerians that the military remains dedicated to combating terrorism and other security threats.
While acknowledging the recent surge in terrorist attacks, especially in Borno State, Musa reaffirmed the military’s resolve, urging troops to remain focused on their mission.
“The CDS noted that although there was a notable increase in the tempo of attacks, that would not diminish the military efforts in combating the scourge,” a statement from the Defence Headquarters said.
Musa also paid tribute to the fallen military personnel and expressed gratitude for their sacrifices in defending the country.
