Six Days Post-UN Summit, Nigerians Await Tinubu’s Return Amidst Rumours

In the aftermath of President Bola Tinubu’s attendance at the 78th UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, concerns are mounting as he remains absent from Nigeria for the sixth consecutive day, with no official communication about his whereabouts. This extended absence has triggered speculation among Nigerians, evoking comparisons to his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, known for prolonged overseas stays.

President Tinubu arrived in New York on September 18 and left the United States last Thursday, departing from JFK airport around 8:25 p.m. local time. However, he has yet to share any details of his travel itinerary with the Nigerian public, echoing a pattern reminiscent of his predecessor’s aloofness from public accountability.

The State House has refrained from commenting on President Tinubu’s itinerary, but senior administration officials have hinted that he is involved in strategic matters in Paris and is expected to return to Nigeria by the end of the current week.

A senior official familiar with President Tinubu’s plans stated, “We understand that the president is tending to important matters and holding strategic meetings in Paris, and he will be returning to the country before the end of this week.”

Notably, the State House deliberately omitted any mention of the president’s plan to stay in Paris for an extended period after concluding his UNGA assignment in New York, contributing to the growing perception of a lack of transparency.

President Tinubu’s failure to communicate with the public echoes the approach of his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, who frequently embarked on lengthy overseas trips without providing explanations, earning him the moniker of a “remote president.”

It is essential to highlight that during Mr. Buhari’s presidency, Nigeria faced economic challenges, characterized by reckless spending and unproductive policies, leading to a dire economic situation. Notably, since President Tinubu’s departure, the Nigerian naira has been trading at an alarming rate of N1000 to one US dollar, potentially signaling a setback in his efforts to stabilize the national currency.

Despite President Tinubu’s repeated claims of being different from his predecessor, his actions appear to mirror the past, raising questions about his commitment to transparency and public accountability.