AWOL LEADERSHIP: TINUBU, SHETTIMA’S ABSENCE EXACERBATES NIGERIA’S ECONOMIC WOES
Doyin Okupe’s statement that the absence of the president and vice president has no consequences for a struggling economy like Nigeria’s is quite puzzling. In presidential systems like Nigeria, the president and vice president play critical roles in shaping the economy due to the intricate interplay between their roles which will help to stabilize the balance of forces in the management of the country’s affairs.
Especially in times of economic crisis, the president and vice president must work together to address pressing issues. Their absence can lead to delays in decision-making, exacerbating economic challenges.
The simultaneous absence of President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima from the country is an unacceptable dereliction of duty. At a time when Nigeria is grappling with a plethora of challenges, including a struggling economy, worsening insecurity, and a rapidly depreciating currency, the leaders’ decision to abandon their posts is irresponsible and unpatriotic.
The resulting vacuum in governance is a recipe for disaster, exacerbating the already dire situation. With the naira plummeting to historic lows and inflation soaring, the country desperately needs steadfast leadership, not absenteeism.
This egregious display of leadership lapse undermines the trust of Nigerians and sends a disturbing signal to international partners. How can a nation expect to attract investment and support when its leaders are AWOL?
The Presidency’s reassurances ring hollow, as the absence of both leaders creates an undeniable power vacuum. Critical decisions are stalled, and the country’s fragile economy teeters on the brink.
Nigerians demand better. They deserve leaders who prioritize the nation’s interests above personal convenience. President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima must return immediately and attend to the pressing issues facing the nation.
Their absence is a stark reminder of the systemic failures that have plagued Nigeria for decades. It’s time for accountability, transparency, and decisive action. The nation cannot afford such leadership lapses.
Under normal circumstances the National Assembly should have taken concrete steps to address this governance deficit and ensure that the country’s leaders are held accountable for their actions.
Given Nigeria’s current economic struggles, including a depreciating currency and rising inflation, it’s crucial for the president and vice president to be actively engaged in addressing these issues.
If Okupe is looking for examples of countries where the absence of leaders had significant economic consequences, consider:
– *Argentina’s 2001 Economic Crisis*: President Fernando de la Rúa’s resignation amid economic turmoil led to a period of instability and further economic decline.
– *Greece’s 2015 Economic Crisis*: The absence of a clear government leadership during the debt crisis exacerbated the economic challenges facing the country.
These examples demonstrate the importance of leadership presence during economic challenges.
*HIGH CHIEF PETER AMEH*
*CHAIRMAN*
*FOR DEMOCRATIC ACCOUNTABILITY AND ELECTORAL REFORMS (CODER)*
EMAIL: coalitionfordemocratic@gmail.com
