The recurring, unannounced disappearances of President Tinubu during transit are becoming increasingly concerning, casting a shadow over his leadership style and the perception of his presidency. This pattern, which has been observed multiple times since he assumed office, raises questions not just about transparency but also about his commitment to the duties of his office and the expectations of the Nigerian public.
President Tinubu’s unexplained absences began to draw significant attention shortly after he was sworn in. One notable instance was during his first international trip to France for the Global Financing Pact Summit. Reports indicated that Tinubu left his official delegation unexpectedly, with no clear communication on his whereabouts or activities during the critical summit. This lack of transparency was not only embarrassing but also left Nigerian officials scrambling to manage questions from international partners.
Another troubling episode occurred during the G20 Summit in India. After delivering his speech, the president was reported to have disappeared from key sessions without prior notice or explanation, leaving his aides to handle diplomatic engagements in his absence. This kind of erratic behavior is not only unbecoming of a head of state but also reflects poorly on Nigeria’s international standing. Leaders from other nations maintain a clear and predictable presence at such high-stakes meetings, recognizing that their visibility and participation are crucial to their countries’ influence and reputation on the global stage.
The most recent incident that raised eyebrows was President Tinubu’s sudden detour to London after his state visit to China. Nigerians were informed that he was returning directly from China to Nigeria; however, it soon emerged that he had made an unannounced stop in London, sparking confusion and widespread speculation about his health and the purpose of the trip. The president’s aides offered no immediate explanation, and the secrecy surrounding his movements only added to the growing perception of inconsistency and evasiveness.
Further instances include his unscheduled medical trips, which have often been shrouded in secrecy. While it is understandable that health matters can require discretion, the lack of transparency about the nature of these trips, the destinations, and their duration only fuels speculation and public distrust. Leaders like former President, Muhammadu Buhari faced similar criticisms when medical absences were poorly communicated, leading to persistent rumors and questions about fitness to govern.
Such unannounced disappearances not only create diplomatic awkwardness but also send a disturbing message about the president’s engagement with his responsibilities. A statesman’s presence at official functions is not just symbolic; it is a fundamental aspect of leadership. It reassures the public, strengthens diplomatic ties, and demonstrates the seriousness with which a leader approaches his role. When President Tinubu disappears without explanation, it undermines the credibility of his office and suggests a lack of respect for both his position and the Nigerian people.
In leadership, visibility and accountability are non-negotiable. It is essential that the president maintain a transparent and consistent presence, especially during official duties. Repeated disappearances without clear communication are not merely a breach of protocol—they reflect poorly on Nigeria’s governance and weaken public confidence.
For President Tinubu to be viewed as a statesman, there must be a shift towards greater accountability, clarity, and reliability in his actions. Without this, his frequent disappearances risk becoming a defining and deeply damaging feature of his presidency
