Bayo Onanuga, the spokesman for President-elect Bola Tinubu,
addressed concerns that Tinubu might
govern Nigeria from abroad, stating that
it would not be the case. During an appearance on Trust TV’s Daily Politics,
Onanuga discussed Tinubu’s plans for his initial 10 days in office.
Onanuga dismissed speculations that Tinubu would rule from
London, similar to President Muhammadu Buhari during a certain period. He
emphasized that such a scenario would not occur. Onanuga explained that the
president-elect and the committee members have been inundated with various
requests and pressures from individuals seeking positions in the government.
The purpose of Tinubu’s recent travel, as mentioned in a
press release, was to avoid these pressures and distractions. Initially, he had
planned to visit London to spend time with his grandchildren. However, he
ultimately decided against it and returned to Nigeria instead. Onanuga also
mentioned that Tinubu had been in Saudi Arabia before the elections, but he
opted not to go there again.
Regarding whether Tinubu would settle entirely in Nigeria and
face the forthcoming challenges, Onanuga expressed confidence that he would do
so. However, he acknowledged the reality of living in a globalized world where
remote communication is possible. Onanuga mentioned that even if Tinubu were in
Russia, he could utilize Zoom meetings and other means to carry out his
responsibilities. Nonetheless, he assured the public that Tinubu would be
physically present to fulfill his duties as president and would not be an
absentee leader.
Interestingly, both Tinubu and President Buhari happened to
be in Europe at the time, although this coincidence was unrelated to the
discussion about Tinubu’s governance.
