“This is not governance; it’s neglect” – Peter Obi questions President Tinubu’s long absence

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over his prolonged absence from Nigeria, describing it as neglect rather than leadership.

In a post shared on his verified X handle on Monday, Obi said the president’s extended stay outside the country raises concerns about governance, especially at a time when Nigeria faces pressing challenges.

The former Anambra State governor noted that the president’s absence contrasts sharply with practices in developing countries, where leaders are expected to be physically present and actively engaged during periods of crisis.

“In Nigeria, following U.S. military strikes on our soil, our President remained silent. Instead of directly addressing the nation, Nigerians learned about these critical events from foreign media, American officials, and the vague communications from the Presidency’s aides known for their propaganda, rather than from their own leader.

“In the midst of this chaos, where has our President been? Spending 196 days abroad in 2025 alone, more than he has spent within his own country, at a time when we face profound crises.

“Since December 2025, Nigerians have not heard a word from their President. Reports indicate he opted for a holiday in Europe while the nation was plunged into a New Year marked by hunger, anxiety, and uncertainty. There was no New Year address, no national broadcast, no leadership voice to provide reassurance or guidance.

“This is not governance; it’s neglect. The President was seen abroad yet again for another summit while remaining absent from his own country when he is needed the most. Earlier this year, he even sent an AI-generated image to the nation instead of addressing his people face-to-face,” he wrote.