Fatshimetrie
By Caroline Dupont
In an already tense political climate, a new controversy has broken out between the communication teams of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and President Bola Tinubu. This time, it is over the president’s recent escapade to France that tongues are loosening.
When President Tinubu announced his departure on a two-week vacation, starting with a visit to the United Kingdom and then to France, criticism was quick to come. Critics deplore his absence in this period of generalized economic crisis.
The tone has risen between Phrank Shaibu, special assistant in public communication to Atiku Abubakar, and Bayo Onanuga, the president’s press secretary. On social networks, Shaibu sharply criticized Tinubu for having, according to him, abandoned his government responsibilities in the midst of economic turmoil.
Reacting to Bayo Onanuga’s defence of the presidential visit, saying that the president should be allowed to enjoy his rest time undisturbed, Shaibu retorted that “the federal government is not a travel agency”. He insisted that the current economic situation demands that leaders remain fully engaged in the running of the country.
Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s special adviser on information and strategy, broke his silence to defend his boss’s choice. He stressed that the trips are part of the president’s leave entitlement. He reiterated that Tinubu was on leave and could go wherever he pleased.
However, Shaibu did not mince his words, describing Onanuga’s remarks as insensitive to the economic reality facing the country. He noted the irony of the presidency being treated as a mere place for personal relaxation, far removed from the concerns of citizens who are facing major economic and security challenges.
Shaibu believes that politicians must be constantly accountable to the people, even during their holidays. He denounces Onanuga’s indifference to the difficulties faced by Nigerians on a daily basis.
In conclusion, this controversy illustrates the growing tensions and expectations of citizens towards their leaders. As the country goes through a difficult period, public opinion expects leaders to demonstrate solidarity and responsibility, even during holidays. The heated exchanges between the communication teams highlight the crucial issues surrounding the management of public affairs and the exercise of political power.