APC defends Tinubu’s foreign travel against Obi’s scrutiny
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has fired back at Peter Obi over his criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s overseas holiday, insisting that governance continues despite the president taking a break.
Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, had taken a swipe at Tinubu’s frequent foreign trips, suggesting they give the impression that the president is growing uncomfortable at home “at a time Nigeria is in dire need of his presence.”
Responding via statement on Saturday, APC spokesperson Seye Oladejo accused Obi of “opportunistic commentary” and warned him against commenting on routine presidential activities.
He questioned: “Must Peter Obi comment on everything or anything?”
Oladejo continued, “Let us be clear: President Tinubu, like any responsible leader, remains fully briefed and in active communication with his security and intelligence teams – even while on a brief vacation. Governance does not grind to a halt simply because a leader takes time to rest—especially in an age where secure, real-time communication is always within reach. Mr. Obi knows this.”
He accused Obi of politicising government actions, arguing that the former Anambra governor’s approach appeared more focused on criticism than offering constructive alternatives.
The APC advised Obi to focus on offering constructive contributions rather than frequent criticisms: “Silence remains an honourable option,” it stated.
The party reaffirmed its commitment to governance, saying it is focused “not on the theatre of political opportunists.”
President Tinubu on Thursday commenced a 10-day vacation as part of his 2025 annual leave, the Presidency announced.
Tinubu’s frequent foreign trips have increasingly become a flashpoint in political debates. Since assuming office in May 2023, he has embarked on several international engagements ranging from diplomatic summits to economic forums.
While the presidency insists such trips are critical for attracting foreign investment and strengthening bilateral ties, critics like Obi have accused him of neglecting pressing domestic issues.
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