BY GODWIN IJEDIOGOR
*‘Why Seyi, Yinka Tinubu Were Included On Qatar Trip’
PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu arrived in Qatar on Thursday, February 29 on the invitation of the Emir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamin Al-Thani.
A statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ajuri Ngelale, said Tinubu, who departed Lagos State after a two-day official visit during which he commissioned the Red Line transportation system, was in the Arabian country to further strengthen cooperation between the two nations in several areas, including security, cultural exchange and economic development.
While there, the President would witness the signing of agreements to boost Nigeria’s real sector and create value-additive investments, especially in the areas of trade, education, culture, solid minerals, digital economy, agriculture, oil and gas and foster cooperation on counter-terrorism.
Ngelale added that Tinubu would also participate in a business and investment Forum with top-level executives in the private and public sectors of Nigeria and Qatar to advance cross-sectoral opportunities.
He stated that Tinubu would be accompanied on the trip by senior government officials for the signing of agreements.
However, many Nigerians have criticised the inclusion of Tinubu’s sons- Seyi and Yinka- as part of the delegation by many Nigerians, wondering what value their presence would add to the trip and indeed Nigeria.
The Conference of United Political Parties (CUPP), in its reaction, questioned the rationale, accusing the President of being busy deceiving Nigerians by claiming to be serious about cutting the cost of governance.
CUPP, in a statement issued by its National Secretary, Mr. Ameh Peter, had described their inclusion as a clear case of mismanagement of public finances and an obvious manifestation of corruption in government.
“In what capacity is Seyi Tinubu and Yinka Tinubu traveling to Qatar on the official list of Nigeria’s delegation to Qatar?
“While Tinubu is busy deceiving Nigerians that he is serious about cutting down the cost of governance, he is increasing such cost through the backdoor with a bloated list of dignitaries, which includes his family members.
“Slots that should have been given to professionals who are well-equipped to negotiate a good deal for our collapsing economy and country.
“His children have no idea or experience required in this business of international affairs and relations with bilateral trade between countries,” fumed.
CUPP decried what it called nepotism in the Tinubu administration, wondering “why his government has brought more misery to the Nigerian people than any government in the history of our country.
“This is a clear case of mismanagement of public finances and an obvious sign of corruption in government.”
But the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital and New Media, Mr. O’tega Ogra, defended the inclusion of Seyi and Yinka Tinubu in the presidential delegation on the state visit.
Reacting in a post via his official X account, Ogra said it’s a norm and not uncommon, claiming that such decisions concern security and a way to ‘soften a leader’s public image.’
He wrote: “It is not uncommon for children of world leaders to accompany their parents on foreign trips. In fact, it is the norm. Canadian PM Trudeau is known to travel with his family on official trips abroad. Same with UK PMs, even if somewhat muted.
“From the public image and diplomacy angle, bringing family members can soften a leader’s public image and aid in diplomatic relations by showcasing a relatable, family-oriented side.
“For some leaders, taking their children on such trips is a way of educating them about world affairs and different cultures. Others do it to maintain some semblance of family life, despite the demands of public office, and for security considerations.
“The Obamas, Clintons, Bushs, Trumps and others went on tons of foreign trips whilst in office with their families.
“We really need to stop majoring in minors in the name of castigating everything.”
