Presidency Defend Tinubu, Says He is Human Not Superman

The Presidency has defended President Bola Tinubu following his slip at the Eagle Square on June 12, 2024, during the Democracy Day celebration. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, emphasized that President Tinubu is not a Superman, but a human being like everyone else. He pointed out that even the current United States President, Joe Biden, has had several slips in the past three years, and former President Barack Obama also slipped while in office despite his younger age.

Onanuga stated that political leaders are humans and can slip or fall like anyone else. He mentioned that President Tinubu’s slip should not detract from the importance of the Democracy Day celebration.

The incident occurred when President Tinubu was climbing into a parade vehicle at the Eagle Square in Abuja. He momentarily lost his footing but quickly regained his balance with the support of his aide-de-camp (ADC).

The Presidency’s response was in reaction to the backlash and mockery that followed the incident on social media. Some netizens had used the opportunity to criticize the President. However, others downplayed the incident, noting that it was a normal occurrence and did not affect the President’s ability to carry out his duties.

In his defense, Onanuga said, “President Tinubu is not a Superman. He is human, like all of us. President Biden has had several slips in the last three years. Even the younger Barack Obama slipped while President. Political leaders are humans. Slipping should not detract from the import of Democracy Day.”