Atiku Faults Tinubu Over Absence At Lagos Project Events

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Tinubu over his alleged absence from key project unveilings during his recent visit to Lagos.

In a statement issued on Thursday by Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, the former vice president’s camp accused Tinubu of failing to personally attend several major events scheduled as part of his official engagements.

“It is troubling and unacceptable that, despite embarking on a two-day working visit to Lagos State, the President failed to make meaningful public appearances at key project unveilings.

“The increasingly disturbing pattern of absentee leadership exhibited by the President raises serious questions about his commitment to the responsibilities entrusted to him by the Nigerian people,” the statement said.

The camp specifically pointed to the commissioning of the Opebi–Mende–Ojota Link Bridge and the inauguration of a Multi-Agency Complex, both of which were delegated to Senate President Godswill Akpabio instead of being attended by the President.

According to the statement, such absences raise concerns about Tinubu’s commitment to governance and accountability.

“At a time when Nigeria is grappling with worsening insecurity and other national challenges, such absence at critical state functions is both alarming and unacceptable,” it added.

The statement also referenced Tinubu’s recent visit to Plateau State, describing it as “shockingly brief.”

“In the aftermath of a devastating terrorist attack, he spent barely ten minutes at the Jos Airport before departing—an act widely perceived as dismissive of the gravity of the tragedy,” it said.

It further argued that the explanation by the President’s media team—that he proceeded to Lagos for official engagements—has now “been rendered hollow.”

“Since his arrival in Lagos, the President has remained largely confined to his private residence, with little to no visible engagement in the activities meant to validate the so-called working visit,” the statement added.

While acknowledging Tinubu’s attendance at the commissioning of the Iperu Airport in Ogun State, the Atiku camp described it as insufficient in light of other missed engagements.

The statement concluded by urging the President to show greater commitment and presence in office.

“Leadership is not a ceremonial privilege; it is a solemn duty. The office of the President demands presence, responsiveness, and an unwavering sense of responsibility. Anything less would amount to a grave disservice to the Nigerian people,” it said.

Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to the President on Public Communications and Orientation, Sunday Dare, had earlier defended Tinubu’s absence, explaining that the President was engaged in ongoing security briefings.

Speaking on Channels Television on Wednesday, Dare said, “Yes, the President is in Lagos, and I’m sure beyond the pictures, you know that the President has been busy with state matters.”