Presidency Denies Reports of Tinubu Illness, Labels Evacuation Claims ‘False’
By IDNN State House & Politics Desk
Presidency denies Tinubu illness — pushing back against claims that Nigeria’s leader is bedridden and preparing for emergency medical evacuation abroad.
The Nigerian Institute for Investigative Journalism last week published a report citing unnamed sources, alleging that Tinubu’s health had deteriorated, forcing the cancellation of scheduled engagements and leaving Vice President Kashim Shettima to stand in at multiple events.
AbdulAziz AbdulAziz, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Print Media, told BBC Hausa on Monday that the rumours were “false” and politically motivated.
“The President is healthy. These reports are fabrications meant to create unnecessary tension,” AbdulAziz said.
Timeline of Public Appearances
Tinubu was last seen publicly on August 1 at the Summit on Journalism for National Development in Abuja, following a reception for the victorious Super Falcons after their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph in Morocco.
Questions over his whereabouts grew louder after he skipped the August 3 ceremony honouring Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, where Shettima represented him.
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Political Underpinnings
Political analysts note that presidential health has long been a sensitive issue in Nigeria, often used as ammunition in high-stakes political battles. The administration is keen to avoid a repeat of past controversies, such as the 2010 Yar’Adua succession crisis or the extended medical absences of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
By firmly rejecting the report, the Presidency is attempting to pre-empt any narrative that could erode confidence in Tinubu’s leadership or create instability ahead of critical economic and security decisions expected in the coming months.
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