By Danjuma Lamido
Nigeria’s political space has once again been stirred by a familiar pattern: sensational claims unsupported by facts, amplified for attention rather than national interest.
This time, the target is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following reports that he departed Lagos for a trip to Europe.
On Sunday, SaharaReporters reported the President’s travel, a development that was promptly and clearly explained by the Presidency. In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Nigerians were informed that the trip was a continuation of President Tinubu’s end-of-year break, ahead of his official visit to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. There was nothing secretive, hurried, or alarming about it.
Yet, Omoyele Sowore, a serial former presidential candidate and perennial agitator, chose to spin this straightforward development into an alarmist narrative, alleging, without evidence, that the president was unwell and flown out for medical reasons. This is not just irresponsible; it is deliberately misleading.
Unfortunately, such a malicious statement is coming from someone who has made a career out of provocation rather than constructive engagement. Nigerian politics is a serious business that demands maturity, facts, and ideas, not conjecture, insults, or social media theatrics. Our democracy is too important to be reduced to rumours and jest.
If Mr Sowore insists on his claim, the burden of proof lies squarely on him. Let him present concrete evidence that President Tinubu travelled to Europe for medical treatment.
Until then, his assertions remain what they are: baseless allegations. Those who saw the president before his departure can attest that he was hale, hearty, and fully engaged with the responsibilities of his office.
Nigeria is not governed by sick people, and governance itself is not a playground for blackmail or attention-seeking narratives. President Tinubu has been transparent about his movements, and his administration has consistently communicated with Nigerians in line with democratic accountability.
It also bears stating clearly that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has never used Nigeria as a form of “health insurance”, as some have mischievously suggested. He is more than capable of taking care of his personal health needs whenever the need arises. More importantly, there is no indication, official or otherwise, that such a need informed his recent travel.
At a time when Nigerians expect serious opposition built on ideas, policies, and credible alternatives, peddling unverified claims about the health of an elected president does nothing to advance democracy. It only exposes a chronic lack of substance.
The country deserves better. Facts must prevail over fantasies, and responsible discourse must triumph over reckless talk.
Danjuma Lamido writes from Yola, Adamawa State. email: danjumalamido2011@gmail.com
