Leadership Vacuum or Working Vacation? Atiku and Presidency Clash Over Tinubu’s Extended Absence

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised constitutional concerns regarding the continued absence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from the country, asking the central question: “Who, constitutionally, is in charge of Nigeria?”

The controversy follows the expiration of President Tinubu’s initial three-week annual vacation—which began on August 30 in the UK and France—and the Presidency’s announcement extending his stay in Europe by a few extra days.

1. Atiku’s Constitutional Challenge

In a statement titled “Who is in charge of Nigeria?”, Atiku challenged the legality of managing the government remotely.

• Section 145 Invocation: Atiku argued that Section 145(1) of the 1999 Constitution mandates the President to transmit a written declaration to the Senate President and Speaker of the House before embarking on vacation, empowering the Vice President to act as President.
• The 21-Day Rule: He noted that because 21 days have elapsed without evidence of such a letter, Section 145(2) requires the National Assembly to mandate Vice President Kashim Shettima as Acting President.
• Leadership Abroad: Atiku highlighted that Vice President Shettima is currently in New York representing Nigeria at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), while Senate President Godswill Akpabio is also out of the country. He asked under what constitutional instrument governance is currently operating while key leaders are abroad.
• Rejection of “Working Vacation”: The former Vice President rejected the concept of a “working vacation,” arguing that Nigeria cannot be governed by social media updates or informal arrangements while facing severe economic and security challenges.

2. The Presidency Defends the Extension

In response to the criticism, the Presidency dismissed concerns about a leadership vacuum, asserting that state affairs remain fully under control.

• Continuous Command: Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, affirmed that President Tinubu remains fully in charge, constantly communicating with government officials and directing affairs from abroad.
• Return Timeline: The Presidency assured the public that President Tinubu will return to Nigeria by the end of the week.
• UNGA Representation: Pushing back against criticisms regarding Tinubu’s absence at UNGA, the administration described the claims as “irresponsible,” noting that Vice President Shettima was explicitly delegated to lead the Nigerian delegation and deliver the national statement.

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