Obidient movement said Nigerians, particularly young people, deserved transparency from political leaders and urged the Presidency to provide details on the President’s travel plans and the decision not to attend the UNGA.
By Deborah Hassan
365Daily – The Obidient Movement has queried President Bola Tinubu’s absence from the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, as well as the extension of his annual leave in Europe.
In a statement by its Media and Communications Directorate, the movement said Tinubu’s decision was particularly noteworthy given his recent meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace in Paris.
It argued that the UNGA offered Nigeria an important opportunity to engage world leaders, advance the country’s interests and participate directly in discussions on issues affecting Nigeria and Africa.
The movement questioned why the President could undertake an extended European trip and hold a high-level meeting with Macron but would not personally represent Nigeria at the annual gathering of world leaders.
It also sought clarification over the change in Tinubu’s plans, noting that there had earlier been indications that the President would attend the General Assembly.
OK movement said Nigerians, particularly young people, deserved transparency from political leaders and urged the Presidency to provide details on the President’s travel plans and the decision not to attend the UNGA.
However, the Federal Government said Tinubu was on annual leave and had mandated Vice-President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the General Assembly.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said Shettima was carrying the full mandate of the President and Nigeria and would deliver the country’s national statement as well as participate in high-level engagements.
The 81st UNGA high-level general debate is scheduled for September 22 to 28, under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”