Atiku’s aide criticizes Tinubu’s vacation amid economic crisis 

Phrank Shaibu, Special Assistant on Public Communication to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has sharply criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent two-week vacation in France, asserting that the Federal Government is not a “travel agency.”

The President’s decision to take leave during economic hardship has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the appropriateness of his absence.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to Tinubu on Information and Strategy, defended the President’s decision, stating in a press release that Tinubu is entitled to his “private time” and can travel wherever he wishes while on leave. “The President is on a two-week break.

He is not restricted to the UK or any other place. It’s his private time,” Onanuga said.

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In response, Shaibu took to X (formerly Twitter) to condemn the statement, calling it insensitive given Nigeria’s current economic challenges. He mocked Onanuga’s defence, remarking, “Onanuga Needs Help.”

Shaibu added, “Leadership is not a Netflix subscription—you can’t pause it whenever you please. While Nigerians face soaring fuel prices, inflation, insecurity, and a deteriorating economy, we are told the President is enjoying his ‘private time.'”

Shaibu further criticized the disconnect between the Presidency’s demands for sacrifice from citizens and what he sees as personal indulgence at the top.

“Public office is not a personal getaway; it’s a responsibility that requires accountability 24/7, even while on leave,” he stated, accusing Onanuga’s remarks of showing indifference to the plight of Nigerians.

The criticism underscores growing frustration over Tinubu’s vacation as Nigerians struggle with economic instability, and Shaibu concluded by saying, “Nigerians deserve leadership that reflects the seriousness of the challenges they face, not one that treats the Presidency like a travel agency.”