ADC Questions Constitutional Implications of Tinubu and Shettima’s Absence

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the simultaneous absence of President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima from Nigeria, describing the situation as a “very dangerous precedent.”

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, raised the concerns during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today as Tinubu remains abroad on what the Presidency has described as a working vacation, while Shettima is in New York representing Nigeria at the 81st United Nations General Assembly.

Abdullahi questioned the constitutional basis for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, to represent the President at official engagements while both the President and Vice-President are outside the country.

The ADC spokesman specifically questioned whether the SGF could exercise presidential authority in such circumstances and called for clarity over the constitutional chain of succession.

The Presidency has maintained that Tinubu remains in communication with officials in Nigeria and continues to direct government affairs despite his absence. It has also said Shettima is representing the President at the UN General Assembly with a full mandate.

Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement and participate in high-level diplomatic engagements during the General Assembly.