Phrank Shaibu, Special Assistant on Public Communication to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has criticized the Federal Government’s response to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent vacation, asserting that the government is not a travel agency. This statement comes in light of Tinubu’s announcement of a two-week vacation during his trip to France, which has sparked controversy regarding his absence amidst ongoing economic turmoil in Nigeria.
Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, defended the President’s right to enjoy his “private time,” emphasizing that Tinubu is not confined to the UK and can choose his destination during his leave. Onanuga stated, “President Tinubu is on leave for two weeks. He is not restricted to the UK. It is his private time. He can go anywhere he so desires. He is still observing his leave.”
In response, Shaibu took to his X handle to express his disapproval of Onanuga’s remarks, labeling them as insensitive given the country’s current economic challenges. He mockingly compared leadership to a Netflix subscription, suggesting it can be paused at will.
He wrote: “.@officialABAT is on vacation and can jet off to wherever his heart desires, because apparently, leadership is like a Netflix subscription – you can pause it whenever you please. While Nigerians grapple with fuel price hikes, inflation, insecurity, and a crumbling economy, we’re told not to worry because, well, it’s his private time… this Onanuga of a ‘boy’ needs help.”
Shaibu further criticized the government for demanding sacrifices from citizens while appearing to indulge in personal pleasures at the top, highlighting the disconnect between the leadership and the struggles faced by ordinary Nigerians.