Atiku Accuses Tinubu Of Using Umrah As Smokescreen, Demands Daily Video Proof
By Sunday Etuka
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Tinubu of using the announced Umrah pilgrimage as smokescreen, saying credible intelligence available to him points to France as the President’s actual destination.
In a statement issued by the Director of Strategic Communication of African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said there was reason to believe President Tinubu might just make a brief appearance in Makkah before proceeding to France.
He also raised questions about whether the trip was connected to the President’s health and reported a 20 billion dollars loan request involving a French business partner. Atiku called on the Presidency to address concerns and disclose the President’s full itinerary.
Atiku said if President Tinubu is truly traveling to pray for Nigeria, the Presidency should release clear current date stamped photographs and videos each day showing him at Kaaba and participating in rites of Umrah.
He said Nigerians deserve verifiable proof of the President’s presence in Makkah and a transparent account of daily activities in Holy Land.
He said he and other Nigerians would join President Tinubu in salat and prayers for peace and progress of the country.
He cautioned that no one should invoke the name of Almighty Allah in vain, adding that spiritual mission undertaken on behalf of the nation must be treated with seriousness and transparency.
He said the official trip presented as a mission for Nigeria is a matter of public interest, noting that Nigerians are entitled to know the President ‘s daily engagements and how the trip is being funded.
He urged the Presidency to answer questions plainly and provide evidence the country deserves.
Earlier, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed that President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Thursday for Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to perform Umrah, an Islamic spiritual exercise involving a pilgrimage to the Holy City.
He explained that the visit would give the President an opportunity for spiritual reflection, devotion, and prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity, stability, and continued progress.
While in Makkah, he said, President Tinubu would perform the religious rites associated with Umrah, seeking Allah’s guidance and blessings for Nigeria and its people.
