The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has defended President Bola Tinubu’s overseas holiday, dismissing criticism from Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as opportunistic and unnecessary.
Obi had faulted Tinubu’s frequent foreign trips, suggesting they created the impression that the president was becoming “uncomfortable at home at a time Nigeria is in dire need of his presence.”
In a statement issued on Saturday, APC spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, rebuked Obi for what he described as “opportunistic commentary” and questioned his tendency to weigh in on every matter.
“Must Peter Obi comment on everything or anything?” Oladejo asked.
He stressed that governance does not stop when the president takes time off, noting that Tinubu remains in constant touch with his security and intelligence teams.
“President Tinubu, like any responsible leader, remains fully briefed and in active communication with his teams—even while on vacation. Governance does not grind to a halt simply because a leader takes time to rest. Mr. Obi knows this,” the APC chieftain said.
Oladejo further accused Obi of politicising routine government actions, urging him to offer constructive alternatives instead of frequent criticism.
“Silence remains an honourable option,” he added.
The party reiterated its commitment to governance, stressing that its focus remains on delivering results “not on the theatre of political opportunists.”
The Presidency had announced on Thursday that Tinubu commenced a 10-day vacation as part of his 2025 annual leave.
Since assuming office in May 2023, Tinubu has embarked on numerous international trips for diplomatic summits and economic engagements. While the presidency insists these travels are vital for attracting investment and strengthening bilateral relations, critics like Obi argue they distract from urgent domestic issues.
