‘Nigeria must not witness another Yar’Adua case — Atiku’s aide warns Tinubu over Makkah trip

Paul Ibe, media aide to the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Atiku Abubakar, has warned President Bola Tinubu against allowing his Makkah trip to create uncertainty over his return and ability to govern, recalling the prolonged absence of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

Ibe raised the concern in a post on X following Tinubu’s departure for the pilgrimage, insisting that Nigerians deserve transparency about the President’s traveling plans and capacity to discharge his duties.

He argued that the country needed practical action on insecurity and economic hardship, not prayers without effective governance.

“Prayers for peace must be matched by effective action against insecurity. Prayers for prosperity must translate into policies that ease hardship, create jobs and help families put food on their tables,” Ibe wrote.

He said the Presidency should provide a definite return date and explain any change to Tinubu’s itinerary, including any medical treatment that could affect his return or ability to perform his duties.

Ibe also cited Section 145 of the Constitution, saying that if Tinubu became unable to discharge his responsibilities, he must notify the National Assembly to allow Vice-President Kashim Shettima to serve as Acting President.

He warned that Nigerians should not be left uncertain about who was exercising presidential authority, adding that the administration should be judged by its presence, accountability and results.

“Mr President, pray for Nigeria. Then return and do the work Nigerians elected you to do,” he stated.