Ill Health Rumours: Why President Tinubu Has Been Absent from Public Functions – Presidency

The Presidency has dismissed claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is battling a serious illness, explaining that his recent absence from public events is due to his decision to work from home.

The clarification follows reports by the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR) alleging that the president had been bedridden for days and that preparations were underway for possible medical treatment abroad. ICIR claimed several of his public engagements had been cancelled, with Vice President Kashim Shettima standing in for him at key events.

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the claims as unfounded.

“There is nothing wrong with the president, he is okay. He can choose to work from home or anywhere,” Onanuga told *Daily Trust*.

“I was with him in his office on August 5. People spread rumours without basis.”

President Tinubu’s last public appearance was on August 1 at the Progressive Media Summit in Abuja, where he addressed young Nigerians in the digital space. Before that, on July 29, he hosted the Super Falcons after their WAFCON championship win.

His absence from the August 3 reception for the victorious D’Tigress basketball team raised questions, especially as Vice President Shettima represented him. ICIR also reported that last week’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting did not hold, and several high-level engagements were postponed.

Despite the break from public functions, the Presidency has continued to release official statements on Tinubu’s activities. On August 6, he announced free healthcare for low-income retirees and a pension increase. A photograph released with the announcement was later confirmed to have been taken at his private residence.

President Tinubu’s frequent overseas trips, particularly to France, have previously fuelled public speculation about his health. Since taking office in 2023, he has spent over 50 days in France across multiple visits, often described as private or working trips.

The Presidency insists there is no cause for alarm, maintaining that Tinubu remains actively engaged in governance and is carrying out his duties effectively from home.