Akpabio Breaks Silence On Tinubu’s Prolonged Stay Abroad, Says President Remains In Charge

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has dismissed concerns over President Bola Tinubu’s continued stay abroad, insisting that there is no leadership vacuum in Nigeria and that the President remains in charge of the country.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Akpabio made the remarks in Akwa Ibom State while commissioning road projects executed by Governor Umo Eno. His comments came amid renewed calls for Tinubu to transfer presidential powers to Vice President Kashim Shettima following the extension of his working vacation abroad.

Akpabio maintained that Tinubu remained in office and continued to perform his constitutional responsibilities despite being outside Nigeria.

He said, “I am the Senate President, and I am not the acting President of Nigeria, because President Tinubu is still in power.”

The Senate President argued that modern communication technology allows the President to continue directing government affairs even while abroad.

“He is on a working leave, and there is no absence in Aso Rock. The world is a global village, and one can give instructions over the internet. So, why are people complaining?” Akpabio said.

He further insisted that there was currently no vacancy in the Presidency, stressing that Tinubu remained in control of the affairs of the Federal Government.

Akpabio also pointed to Tinubu’s recent engagements while abroad, including his meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, as evidence that the President had remained involved in governance.

The Presidency had earlier announced that Tinubu, who left Nigeria on August 30 for a working vacation, had extended his stay by a few days and was expected to return to the country at the weekend. The President first travelled to London before moving to Paris, where he held meetings with Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré.

The President’s extended absence has nevertheless generated political and constitutional debate, particularly because Shettima is also outside the country attending the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. The Presidency said Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, would continue representing Tinubu at some official events while the Vice President is away.

Akpabio’s comments therefore come as political groups and other critics continue to question whether Tinubu’s prolonged absence requires a formal transfer of presidential functions to the Vice President. Those questions remain part of the ongoing public debate, while Akpabio maintains that there is no vacancy in Aso Rock.