Presidency Responds to Bishop Kukah’s “Accidental Leader” Comment on Tinubu

The Presidency has responded to recent remarks by the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, who described President Bola Tinubu as an “accidental leader.” Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, refuted the claim, asserting that Tinubu is not only well-prepared for the presidency but is also actively implementing significant reforms across various sectors.

Onanuga emphasized that Tinubu has been dedicated to transforming Nigeria and is working hard to improve the country’s fortunes. “He is not an accidental leader; he was prepared for this office. He even said that he prepared for it, and he is doing his best to lift this country higher than he met it,” Onanuga stated. He pointed to the President’s reform efforts, highlighting changes in taxation, the oil sector, education, and business environments as evidence of his commitment to progress.

Onanuga also stressed that reforms take time, and Tinubu has acknowledged the challenges people may face during this period. However, he reassured that efforts are being made to support those affected by these changes, ensuring they are not left behind. “Reforms are not done in quick fixes; it takes time for you to turn things around, and he is doing it,” Onanuga added.

Kukah, in his keynote address at the inauguration of Start-Rite School’s new building in Abuja, had criticized Nigerian leaders, including President Tinubu, for assuming office without adequate preparation. He argued that the nation’s leadership struggles to keep up with the rapidly changing demands of the world, which undermines Nigeria’s ability to address its complex political and economic challenges.