‘Nothing Is Wrong With the President’ – Onanuga Dismisses Tinubu Health Speculation

The Presidency has dismissed rumours surrounding the health of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following media reports alleging he had been bedridden and was being considered for urgent medical evacuation abroad.

The International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR) had claimed the President had been unwell for days, missing key public events while Vice President Kashim Shettima represented him at several official functions. The report alleged that a number of Tinubu’s engagements were cancelled and his schedule cleared to allow close medical supervision.

Reacting, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the claims as unfounded. He stated that Tinubu was in his office on August 5 and had been carrying out his duties, whether from his office or residence. “There is nothing wrong with the president,” Onanuga stressed, adding that delegation of duties was a normal aspect of governance.

Tinubu’s most recent public appearance was on August 1 at the Progressive Media Summit, after earlier hosting the victorious Super Falcons on July 29. His absence from the August 3 reception for the D’Tigress, where Shettima stood in, reignited public speculation.

Despite his limited appearances, the presidency has continued to release official statements, including directives on pension increases and free healthcare for low-income retirees, as well as condolence messages to Ghana over a fatal air crash.

ICIR reported that the Federal Executive Council meeting scheduled for last week was postponed, along with several high-level engagements, including a planned meeting with associates of former President Muhammadu Buhari. Onanuga, however, insisted that FEC sessions could be held at any time, and the postponement was not unusual. He also questioned the notion that the President must attend every public function, saying delegation is part of leadership.