Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has demanded an explanation from President Bola Tinubu over his decision to miss the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), questioning whether controversies surrounding his history in the United States have affected Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements.
Atiku, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, made the demand in a statement issued on Sunday, September 20, by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu.
Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st UNGA, following similar arrangements in 2024 and 2025.
Atiku said the three consecutive absences constituted a pattern that required an explanation, arguing that while Shettima could represent Nigeria, the Vice President’s presence could not permanently substitute for that of the President.
“The United Nations General Assembly is one of the world’s most important diplomatic gatherings. It brings together the representatives of the UN’s 193 member states and provides a unique platform for presidents and prime ministers to defend their countries’ interests, negotiate partnerships and shape global decisions on trade, security and development,” Atiku said.
He also questioned why Tinubu would miss the event after Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Jimoh Ibrahim, reportedly said a seat had been secured for the President near United States President Donald Trump.
Ibrahim had previously confirmed Tinubu’s expected attendance and said he would sit close to Trump, before the Presidency later announced Shettima would represent him.
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“The seat was secured, but the President disappeared,” Atiku said.
The former Vice President further linked Tinubu’s absence to reports that Nigeria committed up to $9 million to American lobbyists, asking why such spending was necessary while the President repeatedly stayed away from New York. Reports have confirmed a $9 million lobbying arrangement involving Nigeria, although its purpose and effectiveness have been politically contested.
Atiku also raised Tinubu’s past legal controversy in the United States, referring to a 1993 forfeiture case involving funds linked to Tinubu.
He said the issue warranted answers about whether the President’s “American baggage” had influenced his decision not to attend UNGA.
“We are not asserting that Tinubu is legally prohibited from entering the United States,” Atiku said.
He demanded that the Presidency state whether any legal, diplomatic, medical or personal impediment prevented Tinubu from attending.
“Nigeria is bigger than Bola. Our diplomatic influence, economic interests and international reputation must not be subordinated to Tinubu’s American baggage,” Atiku said.
He concluded by asking: “What exactly are you afraid of in America?”