President Bola Tinubu’s recent trip from the United Kingdom to France has become a topic of discussion, stirring mixed reactions on social media. As Tinubu is currently on a two-week leave, his movement between countries has raised questions about his absence from Nigeria. To address the concerns, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has offered an explanation on the matter.
President Tinubu has been on a two-week leave, which he began in the United Kingdom. This period of rest was intended to give him a break from the intense demands of leading the country. Taking a leave, particularly after months of heavy responsibilities, is common for leaders and is considered an essential part of maintaining their health and productivity.
On Friday, news emerged that President Tinubu had left the UK and traveled to France. This unexpected move led to a wave of reactions online, especially on social media platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter). Many individuals expressed concerns over why the president had left the UK during his leave and questioned whether he should be absent from Nigeria for such an extended period.
Critics voiced their frustration, asking why Tinubu chose to visit another country instead of returning to Nigeria. Some even speculated about his reasons for traveling to France during his leave, which further fueled the conversation.
In response to the public outcry, Bayo Onanuga, the president’s special adviser, made an official statement to clarify the situation. Onanuga explained that President Tinubu’s leave is private and that he is free to travel to any destination of his choice during this time.
Onanuga, addressing the criticisms through a post on X, wrote:
“President Tinubu is on leave for two weeks. He is not restricted to the UK. It is his private time. He can go anywhere he so desires. He is still observing his leave.”
With this statement, the presidency sought to remind the public that the president’s leave is a personal matter, and he is not required to remain in one location. Onanuga also emphasized that Tinubu’s trip to France does not affect his duties as president during the time he is on leave.
Despite the clarification, reactions on social media continued to be divided. While some Nigerians accepted the explanation, agreeing that the president has the right to use his leave as he sees fit, others remained skeptical. Some critics pointed out that, given the state of the country, the president’s extended absence might not send the right message to citizens.
On the other hand, Tinubu’s supporters argued that it is important for the president to take time off and recharge. They stated that even leaders need time to rest and that Tinubu is entitled to use his personal time in any manner he deems necessary.
Although the president has traveled from the UK to France, it is important to note that his two-week leave is still ongoing. The presidency has reassured Nigerians that President Tinubu is in good health and is using this period to rest and recuperate after months of fulfilling the rigorous demands of leading the country.
President Tinubu’s trip from the UK to France has sparked conversation, but the presidency’s response aims to clarify any misunderstandings about the situation. As Onanuga explained, Tinubu is free to travel during his private leave and can spend this time wherever he chooses. Though reactions remain mixed, the presidency emphasizes that this trip does not affect Tinubu’s responsibilities as president.
As the leave period continues, many will be watching for Tinubu’s return to office, hoping that his time off will have refreshed and prepared him for the challenges ahead.
