Dr. Doyin Okupe, a former presidential spokesperson, recently addressed the public’s concerns about Nigeria’s leadership while President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima are traveling abroad. His comments came during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, where he aimed to clarify misconceptions about the state of governance during the leaders’ absence.
Okupe emphasized that it is common for leaders worldwide to take short breaks, even in challenging situations. He stated, “Even in war situations, field commanders go off duty to cool off from war theatres.” This analogy serves to remind the public that leaders also need time to recharge, which does not indicate a lack of control or oversight.
The former presidential spokesperson criticized the notion that there is no one in charge while the President is away. He asserted that this impression is “false and preposterous.” According to Okupe, the President, as the head of government, has access to all necessary tools for governance, regardless of his location.
“Whether the President is in Abuja, London, or anywhere else, all instruments of command and control are accessible and available to him 24/7,” Okupe explained. This underscores the capabilities of modern technology, which allow government operations to continue seamlessly, ensuring that all branches—executive, legislative, and judiciary—function effectively.
Okupe also addressed the recent trip of Vice President Shettima to Sweden for bilateral engagements, describing it as a necessary and brief visit that should not cause alarm. He noted that in earlier republics, fears of military coups led to significant concern over the simultaneous absence of both the President and Vice President. However, he reassured the public that Nigeria has evolved into a stable democracy.
In highlighting the ongoing activities of the administration, Okupe pointed out that, over the last two weeks, the government has made significant progress. “Promotions and new appointments are being made. Policies are being implemented to the letter,” he stated. This progress indicates that there has been no dereliction of duty during this period.
As political opponents criticize the leaders’ absences, Okupe urged them to recognize the realities of modern governance. He said, “The truth is that elections are over, and political gladiators should go back to the drawing board to restrategize for 2027.” This statement calls for a focus on future political strategies rather than dwelling on the current leadership’s temporary travels.
For context, President Tinubu departed for the United Kingdom on October 2 for a two-week working leave, while Vice President Shettima left Abuja for Sweden to represent Nigeria in important diplomatic engagements. Following criticisms regarding their absences, the Presidency reassured the nation that no leadership vacuum has been created by these trips.
