General News
Obidient Movement questions Tinubu’s absence from UNGA
The Obidient Movement has questioned President Bola Tinubu’s decision not to personally attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
The movement, in a statement issued by its Media and Communications Directorate, asked the Presidency to explain the reasons for Tinubu’s absence from the high-level gathering.
It said the President’s decision raised questions, particularly against the backdrop of his ongoing annual leave in Europe and recent engagement with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris.
The movement argued that the UNGA provided Nigeria with an important platform to present its interests, engage world leaders and participate directly in discussions on issues affecting the country and Africa.
It also questioned why Tinubu could undertake an extended trip to Europe and meet Macron at the Élysée Palace but would not personally represent Nigeria at the UNGA.
The group further raised questions about Tinubu’s decision after earlier indications that he would attend the General Assembly, asking the Presidency to clarify what had changed.
It said Nigerians, particularly young people, deserved transparency from political leaders and urged the Presidency to provide facts concerning the President’s travel plans and decision not to attend the UNGA.
However, the Federal Government said Tinubu was currently on annual leave and had mandated Vice-President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st UNGA.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said Shettima carried the full mandate of the President and Nigeria and would deliver the country’s national statement and participate in high-level engagements.
The 81st UNGA high-level general debate is scheduled for Sept. 22 to 28, with this year’s theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”
