President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to arrive back in Nigeria today, ending a nearly two-week working trip overseas.
His absence, however, has raised growing concern across the country, especially as insecurity continues to rise in some states.
The President’s return was confirmed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, through a short post on his X account.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will return home today,” he wrote, signaling the end of what had been described as a working visit.
While away, the Presidency assured Nigerians that the President remained active in his responsibilities.
According to Onanuga, Tinubu had traveled from Paris to London last weekend but remained in touch with top government officials.
“The President’s commitment to his duties remains unwavering, and his administration continues to function effectively under his leadership,” he stated.
Moreover, Onanuga had also confirmed earlier that the President would return on April 21 after the Easter holidays.
“We appreciate the public’s concern and assure all Nigerians that governance proceeds without interruption,” he added.
The overseas trip, which began on April 2, was said to focus on evaluating mid-term achievements of his administration.
However, critics have pointed out that the timing of the visit was troubling.
This is especially true for citizens in states like Plateau, Benue, and Zamfara, where violent attacks and unrest have become more frequent.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar did not hide his dissatisfaction.
Speaking through his media aide Paul Ibe, he described the President’s absence as “irresponsible” at such a critical time.
“Tinubu is away while Nigeria burns daily killings, attacks, and loss of territories. This is deeply troubling,” he noted.
In addition, Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, also raised concerns.
“In the two weeks you have been away, over 150 Nigerians have lost their lives to insecurity,” Obi said.
He urged the President to return quickly and take charge.
“I urge Mr President to quickly suspend whatever he is doing in France and rush home to take responsibility by addressing these disturbing issues,” he added.
These statements highlight the fear and worry many Nigerians feel as the nation’s safety appears to be worsening.
The opposition believes that leadership must be seen and felt in times of crisis.
In their view, Tinubu’s physical absence during this period reflects a lack of urgency.
However, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) disagrees with the criticism.
The party has stated that the President remained in control of affairs even while abroad.
It added that the administration continued to function without disruption, despite his absence.
Therefore, with President Tinubu’s return today, attention now shifts to how quickly the administration can respond to the widespread violence and restore calm.
