The Presidency has rejected comments by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar concerning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s absence from the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the insinuations surrounding Tinubu’s non-attendance as irresponsible and maintained that the President remains in charge of the affairs of the country while on his extended working vacation.
Tinubu left Nigeria on August 30 for London before travelling to Paris, France, where he held engagements with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré.
According to the Presidency, Tinubu’s working vacation was extended by a few days and he is expected to return to Nigeria at the weekend.
The administration said the President has remained in contact with officials in Nigeria and continues to direct government business despite being outside the country.
The Presidency cited Tinubu’s recent directive for an independent investigation into the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners who died while in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna as one of the actions taken by the President during his absence.
Atiku had earlier questioned the circumstances surrounding Tinubu’s absence from the UNGA and asked who was constitutionally exercising presidential authority while the President remained abroad.
The former vice president referenced Section 145 of the Nigerian Constitution and argued that a formal declaration concerning the transfer of presidential functions should be made when a president proceeds on vacation.
Atiku also questioned the decision to have Vice President Kashim Shettima represent Nigeria at the UNGA for the third consecutive year.
The Presidency, however, said Shettima’s representation at the international gathering was part of the administration’s official arrangements.
Shettima is leading Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st UN General Assembly and is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement while participating in high-level meetings and other engagements.
The Presidency also said Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, would continue to represent Tinubu at official events within Nigeria while the President remains abroad.
The disagreement comes amid increased political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections, with Atiku emerging as one of the prominent opposition figures questioning aspects of the Tinubu administration.
The Presidency has maintained that the President’s absence from the UNGA does not prevent the Federal Government from carrying out its responsibilities, while Atiku has continued to raise questions about the constitutional and political implications of the President’s prolonged absence from Nigeria.
