The presidential candidate of the All-Progressive Congress (APC) and former governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed, on Thursday evening returned to Nigeria after spending 12 days in the United Kingdom.
Why it matters
Tinubu, the national leader of the ruling party, left the country four days before the commencement of presidential campaigns. Tinubu’s absence ignited speculations about his health, with many claiming the APC presidential candidate was critically ill and receiving treatment in a London hospital.
Background to the story
Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has received backlash from the public for failing to grant live interviews, being absent at the signing of the peace accord ahead of the 2023 general elections, and making inter party appearances, especially since the 2022 NBA conference.
To put the mind of his party faithfuls and supporters at rest, the presidential candidate released videos and images via his social media platforms, but this seemed to create more chaos as counter claims proved the uploaded media were old.
Going forward
Mr. Festus Keyamo, Chief Spokesman of the Tinubu Presidential Campaign Council in a recent interview with Vanguard newspaper, debunked the claims regarding the ill health of Tinubu and promised that as the campaign season continues, the candidate would have many opportunities to speak to his supporters.
What to watch
These kinds of controversies can in public opinion taint the public image of the presidential candidates if it lingers for too long.