Jimoh Ibrahim Defends Tinubu's Vacation Amid Controversy

Jimoh Ibrahim, serving as Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, defended President Bola Tinubu against criticisms regarding his four-week working vacation in Europe. The controversy arose as opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, questioned Tinubu's absence from Nigeria.

Atiku referenced Section 145 of the Constitution, inquiring whether Tinubu had submitted a written declaration to the National Assembly leadership to transfer presidential functions to Vice President Kashim Shettima during his absence. Ibrahim countered these claims, asserting that the President had not committed any constitutional offense.

He clarified that a working leave differs from an absolute leave, emphasizing the need for leaders to take breaks, stating, “Human beings are not machines.” Ibrahim's remarks aim to quell the concerns raised by opposition figures regarding the legality of Tinubu's vacation.