President Tinubu Returns to Nigeria Amid Public Scrutiny Over Extended Europe Trip
President Bola Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria today after a 19-day trip to Europe that has sparked significant public criticism due to the escalating insecurity in the country. Bayo Onanuga, the president’s special adviser on information and strategy, confirmed the development in a post on X on Monday.
Tinubu initially departed Abuja on April 2 for a two-week “working visit” to Paris, but as the days turned into weeks, with no public address from the president and no detailed itinerary released, speculation grew. The presidency later revealed that Tinubu had moved on to London, extending his stay without providing an official reason for the change in plans.
While Tinubu was abroad, insecurity worsened in Nigeria, particularly in Plateau and Benue states, where armed groups have killed dozens and abducted many more. The surge in violence has led to public outcry over what many perceive as a leadership vacuum.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi were among those criticizing the president’s prolonged stay abroad. Abubakar accused Tinubu of “gallivanting across Europe while Nigeria bleeds,” while Obi called for the president to return immediately to address the crisis at home.
In defense of the president’s absence, the presidency maintained that Tinubu remained in regular communication with top government officials and was continuing to fulfill his duties remotely.
As Nigerians await his return, all eyes are now on how Tinubu’s administration will address the rising insecurity and the growing public dissatisfaction that has intensified during his time away.
Source: Swifteradio.com
