There is serious tension over the recent public visibility of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following claims by activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, that Nigeria is effectively operating “without a president.”
In a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Sowore questioned the whereabouts of President Tinubu, alleging that the president has been largely absent from public view for an extended period. He described the situation as troubling, especially at a time when the country is facing severe economic hardship, security challenges, and growing public discontent.
“Nigeria without a President! Where is Bola Ahmed Tinubu @officialABAT these days? He appears to have vanished entirely from public view!” Sowore wrote.
Sowore, a persistent critic of the current administration, called for greater transparency regarding the president’s status and activities, urging the government to provide clarity to Nigerians.
As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency has not issued an official response directly addressing Sowore’s claims. However, government officials have previously maintained that President Tinubu continues to carry out his constitutional responsibilities, including holding meetings, receiving briefings, and engaging in official duties that may not always be conducted in the public eye.
The comments have sparked renewed debate among opposition figures and civil society groups, many of whom are calling for clearer communication from the government to reassure citizens about the president’s health, location, and active involvement in governance.
The controversy comes amid ongoing economic reforms, rising costs of living, and nationwide protests, further intensifying scrutiny of leadership, accountability, and transparency at the highest levels of government.
