NDC has raised constitutional concerns over Tinubu’s absence from Nigeria.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Nigeria’s main opposition party, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over his absence from the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
The party, in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, on Monday, described Tinubu’s absence as his third consecutive failure to personally attend the annual global gathering since assuming office in 2023.
President Tinubu mandated Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st UNGA, with the Presidency saying Shettima would deliver Nigeria’s national statement and participate in high-level and bilateral meetings.
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The NDC said Nigerians had previously been informed that Tinubu would attend the UNGA before the Presidency announced on September 20 that Shettima had been mandated to represent him.
The party also questioned Tinubu’s prolonged absence from Nigeria, alleging that his stay outside the country had created a governance vacuum.
The NDC further raised questions over compliance with Section 145 of the 1999 Constitution, which provides for the President to transmit a written declaration to the President of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives when proceeding on vacation or otherwise unable to discharge the functions of office.
The constitutional issue has also generated debate among opposition figures and other political actors in recent days.
The party criticised Tinubu’s absence from what it described as an important platform for direct diplomatic and economic engagement with world leaders.
“A nation of over 200 million people cannot be run by delegation and press release. Nigeria deserves a President who is present,” the party said.
The NDC demanded disclosure of Tinubu’s whereabouts and health status, compliance with Section 145 and an end to what it described as “informal, unconstitutional rule from abroad.”
The party also questioned the Presidency’s explanation for Tinubu’s decision not to attend the UNGA, arguing that the significance of the gathering extends beyond delivering the official national address.
According to the Presidency, however, Tinubu’s absence would not diminish Nigeria’s diplomatic standing or its participation in the General Assembly. The government said Shettima would represent Nigeria in high-level meetings and bilateral engagements with world leaders, international organisations and development partners.
The 81st UNGA General Debate is being held from September 22 to 28, 2026, under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”
The NDC, which is preparing for the 2027 general elections, has Peter Obi as its presidential candidate and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as his running mate, according to recent party announcements.
