President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria today following an extended and controversial overseas trip that lasted nearly two weeks. His Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the development via a brief post on X (formerly Twitter): “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will return home today.”
Tinubu’s prolonged absence, which began on April 2 under the guise of a “working visit” to Paris for a performance review of his administration, has stirred public outrage and intensified criticism from political opponents and concerned citizens alike. The president quietly shifted from Paris to London, with no clear disclosure of his exact engagements, prompting growing suspicion and dissatisfaction.
Although the Presidency insisted that Tinubu remained “fully engaged” and in contact with top officials during his time abroad, critics argue that the president’s absence during one of the country’s most turbulent periods is both insensitive and irresponsible.
In the past two weeks, Nigeria has witnessed a devastating rise in insecurity. Armed attacks, killings, and kidnappings have surged across Plateau, Benue, Zamfara, and Borno states, claiming over 150 lives. Yet, the nation’s leader has remained absent, drawing backlash even from prominent political figures.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the president’s trip as “irresponsible,” asserting that Nigeria is “burning” while Tinubu is away. “Daily killings, attacks, and loss of territories — this is deeply troubling,” Atiku said through his media aide, Paul Ibe. “Nigerians are yearning for real leadership—someone who’s present and actively engaged.”
Similarly, Labour Party’s Peter Obi condemned the president’s extended stay abroad, urging him to “rush home” and take charge. “In the two weeks you’ve been away, over 150 Nigerians have been killed. Mr. President must suspend whatever he’s doing and take responsibility for the crisis ravaging our people,” Obi declared.
Meanwhile, voices from civil society and the clergy, including Pastor Tunde Bakare, have openly accused Tinubu of consolidating power at the expense of constitutional balance, with the National Assembly increasingly seen as subservient to the executive.
Despite the mounting concerns, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed criticisms as “politically motivated,” insisting that governance continues seamlessly in the president’s absence.
However, with trust in leadership dwindling and the security situation spiraling out of control, Tinubu’s return may do little to silence the growing discontent among Nigerians who feel abandoned at a time of national emergency.
Reference
Tinubu Returns After Two-Week Foreign Trip Amid National Turmoil