“There is no vacancy in Aso Rock” — Akpabio defends Tinubu’s extended vacation

Senate President,  Godswill Akpabio has dismissed concerns over President Bola Tinubu’s continued stay abroad, insisting that there is no leadership vacuum in Nigeria.

Akpabio made the remarks in Akwa Ibom State on Tuesday while commissioning road projects executed by Governor Umo Eno.

The Senate President was responding to calls for Tinubu to hand over power to Vice President Kashim Shettima following the extension of the President’s three week working vacation by another week.

Akpabio explains why Tinubu has not handed over power

Akpabio maintained that Tinubu remained in office and was still carrying out his constitutional responsibilities despite being outside the country.

He said, “I am the Senate President, and I am not the acting President of Nigeria, because President Tinubu is still in power.”

Akpabio further argued that modern communication had made it possible for the President to continue directing government affairs remotely.

He added, “He is on a working leave, and there is no absence in Aso Rock. The world is a global village, and one can give instructions over the internet. So, why are people complaining?”

The Senate President also said there was currently no presidential vacancy, stressing that Tinubu remained in control of the affairs of the country.

Presidency yet to announce Tinubu’s return date

Akpabio also pointed to Tinubu’s recent diplomatic engagements as evidence of his continued involvement in governance, including communication with French President Emmanuel Macron.

However, the Presidency has not announced a formal return date for Tinubu.

Akpabio’s comments come amid public discussion over whether the President’s extended stay abroad should require a formal transfer of power to the Vice President.