Atiku questions Tinubu’s prolonged stay in France

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has questioned President Bola Tinubu’s prolonged stay in France, asking for clarification on the purpose of the President’s continued absence from Nigeria.

Atiku raised the issue in a statement on Sunday, amid reports that Tinubu had extended his working vacation in Europe by several days.

Tinubu left Nigeria on August 30 for London before travelling to Paris, where he held meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré, according to the Presidency.

The Presidency had said the President continued to direct government affairs while abroad and that his return to Nigeria was expected at the weekend.

Atiku, however, questioned the length of the President’s stay outside the country and sought clarification on his activities in France.

His latest comments follow an earlier statement in which he questioned who was constitutionally exercising presidential powers during Tinubu’s absence.

Atiku had cited Section 145 of the 1999 Constitution, which provides for the President to transmit a written declaration to the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives when proceeding on vacation, allowing the Vice President to perform the functions of President as Acting President.

The Presidency has maintained that Tinubu remained in contact with officials in Nigeria and continued to perform his duties while away.

Vice President Kashim Shettima has represented the President at some official engagements during the period, including the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Atiku’s latest comments come as political parties and their candidates continue preparations for the 2027 general election.