Lagos APC defends Tinubu, says president fully engaged in governance despite Obi’s criticism

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday defended President Bola Tinubu, saying he is fully engaged in the affairs of governance and is neither missing nor absent from his duties.

The party’s response followed comments by Peter Obi, former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023, who questioned the President’s visibility amid growing economic hardship, insecurity, and national challenges. Obi had alleged that Tinubu spent 196 days abroad in 2025- more than he spent within Nigeria – and claimed Nigerians had not heard directly from him since December 2025.

In a statement signed by the Lagos APC Spokesman, Seye Oladejo, the party urged political actors to focus on substantive issues rather than optics. Oladejo said the President remains actively involved in “the complex and demanding work of statecraft, which includes policy coordination, security oversight, diplomatic engagements, and economic reforms.”

“Governance is not measured by constant public appearances or media check-ins. It is assessed by the quality of decisions taken, the policies implemented, and the outcomes delivered in the national interest,” Oladejo added.

He further noted that Tinubu’s schedule is guided by national priorities and the constitutional mandate given to him by Nigerians, not by the need to satisfy political commentary. The spokesperson highlighted ongoing efforts by the administration in economic reform, security coordination, and international diplomacy, aimed at repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth and global relevance.

Tinubu had departed Lagos on December 28, 2025, for Europe to conclude his end-of-year engagements and prepare for an official visit to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, where he was invited by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to participate in the 2026 edition of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW 2026). The president arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday ahead of the event, which began on Monday.

Oladejo called on political leaders to contribute constructively to national development rather than making statements that could create unnecessary public anxiety.