BREAKING: President Tinubu Disappears on Motion as Presidency Releases Statement — Opposition Disagrees
Abuja, Nigeria | April 17, 2025 —
A wave of political tension has emerged as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues his unannounced extended stay in Europe, prompting criticism from opposition figures who describe the development as a “governance by proxy.” The Presidency, in an attempt to calm growing concerns, issued an official statement clarifying that the President remains fully in charge of the nation’s affairs — despite his physical absence.
The statement, signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, emphasized that Tinubu is temporarily out of the country and has been working remotely, maintaining communication with key government officials from London, where he traveled after leaving Paris last weekend.
Presidency Maintains: ‘Tinubu Still Governing From Abroad’
Onanuga reiterated that President Tinubu’s trip is in line with a previously disclosed two-week schedule and that he remains actively involved in the day-to-day management of national affairs, including directing Nigeria’s security architecture.
“The President left Paris for London and has maintained constant communication with government officials, giving directives on critical national issues, especially to security chiefs regarding threats in some parts of the country,” Onanuga noted.
He added that President Tinubu’s return to Abuja would follow the Easter holiday, assuring Nigerians that governance has not stalled in his absence.
Opposition Reacts: ‘Where is the President?’
Despite the State House clarification, opposition parties have criticized the situation, questioning the President’s prolonged absence and alleged lack of transparency.
Senator Chukwuma Ihedioha, spokesperson for the Democratic Unity Forum (DUF), voiced concern:
“The people deserve to know the full truth. This is not a monarchy. We cannot keep pretending all is well when the President vanishes from the country for weeks without a clear reason or visible activity.”
Opposition leaders argue that the President’s remote governance sets a dangerous precedent and weakens democratic accountability.
Governance by Proxy or Remote Leadership?
While the Presidency insists that Nigeria’s governance structure is functioning smoothly under Tinubu’s remote leadership, critics maintain that absence from the seat of power in Aso Rock limits effectiveness — particularly at a time when the country is facing economic pressures and security challenges.
A senior political analyst, Dr. Amina Musa, commented:
“Remote leadership only works when systems are robust. Nigerians need visibility, not silence. Transparency is part of trust, and this is where the government must do better.”
The Way Forward: Tinubu’s Return Awaited
As public discourse intensifies, Nigerians await President Tinubu’s return. The Presidency has assured citizens that the President’s commitment to his constitutional duties is unwavering, and that all organs of government are fully functional.
“We appreciate public concern. Nigerians can rest assured that President Tinubu continues to lead with dedication and resolve,” the statement concluded.
For continuous updates on this developing story and all key events in Nigerian politics, stay tuned to [YourNewsPlatform.com].
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