Nigerias President Tinubu.webp
The Digest:

For the second consecutive year, President Bola Tinubu was not present as the nation gathered to honor its fallen military heroes, drawing sharp criticism from opposition groups and civil society, who labeled his absence a troubling signal of disregard.

Key Points:
  • President Tinubu was in Abu Dhabi for a sustainability summit during the Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
  • Vice President Shettima represented him at the wreath-laying ceremony in Abuja.
  • The ADC party called the absence “deeply troubling,” stating, “leadership cannot be outsourced.”
  • CISLAC and the Obidient Movement said it showed disrespect to fallen soldiers and their families.
  • This marks the second year Tinubu has missed the event due to the same international summit.
  • The Presidency and the APC did not respond to requests for comment on the criticism.
  • The ceremony honors troops who died in service amid ongoing national security challenges.
In a nation where presence is its own language, an empty chair at a ceremony for the fallen speaks volumes, turning a day of unity into a quiet referendum on the priorities of power.

Sources: Daily Trust, The Cable