President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent private trip to Paris, France, has drawn criticism from the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and civil society organizations (CSOs) amidst the backdrop of mounting security challenges in Nigeria.
Departing from Abuja on January 24, 2024, Tinubu’s spokesperson described it as a “private visit,” with the President expected to return in early February.
Expressing dissatisfaction, NEF and CSOs cited a lack of transparency in the announcement.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo particularly condemned the timing of Tinubu’s trip, given the nation’s security and economic crises.
Secretary-General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro emphasized the necessity for Tinubu to communicate the purpose of such visits to the Nigerian populace, urging him to formally delegate powers to Vice President Kashim Shettima during his absence.
Isiguzoro highlighted the nation’s challenges, including escalating security issues and economic downturn, emphasizing the potential catastrophic consequences of neglecting these pressing matters.
President’s absence a disaster – Ohanaeze
Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said Tinubu’s trip came at a time when the nation is experiencing huge financial and economic challenges.
Isiguzoro urged Tinubu to communicate the reasons behind engaging in private visits to the Nigerian people.
“We would like to ask the president to fulfill his constitutional obligations by formally sending power to Vice President Kashim Shettima in his absence.