The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the extension of his working vacation in Europe, arguing that he should be in Nigeria addressing the security and economic difficulties confronting citizens.
The opposition party also questioned the President’s decision not to attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, where Vice President Kashim Shettima is representing Nigeria. (FMINO)
The PDP made its position known in a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of its Interim National Working Committee, Ini Ememobong.
The party said Tinubu’s continued absence was coming at a period when Nigerians were contending with insecurity, economic hardship and growing concerns over their welfare.
“The President’s continued absence comes at a difficult time for Nigerians, who are facing insecurity, economic hardship and a growing sense of hopelessness,” the party said.
“If the President is not in Nigeria solving the problems of the country, he should be at UNGA seeking international help for the country,” the PDP said.
According to the party, remaining on vacation while the country faces pressing challenges was difficult to reconcile with the responsibilities attached to the presidency.
It maintained that Nigerians were entitled to question how Tinubu was discharging the duties of his office, stressing that he sought the presidency and became accountable to the electorate after taking the oath of office.
The PDP also questioned why the President, despite being in Europe, would not proceed to the United States for the UNGA and use the international gathering to seek support for Nigeria.
“There is no greater insult to the presidential mandate than this,” the PDP said.
The party further urged Nigerians to take the development into consideration when deciding who to support at the next presidential election.
It said Nigeria needed a president willing to work both within the country and on the international stage.
“This must guide our choices at the ballot in January, during the presidential elections, because we need a President who is ready, willing and able to work conscientiously for our country, locally and internationally,” it said.
Meanwhile, the Presidency has maintained that Tinubu’s absence from the UNGA will not affect Nigeria’s participation at the global gathering. The Federal Government said Shettima is leading the Nigerian delegation and will deliver the country’s national statement while participating in high-level engagements. (FMINO)
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