President Bola Tinubu’s decision not to attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York has drawn a fresh reaction from African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, who alleged that the President stayed away because of fears of arrest in the United States.
Sowore made the claim in a social media post on Sunday, September 20, 2026, while reacting to Tinubu’s absence from the annual UN gathering. His allegation was not accompanied by evidence showing that US authorities planned to arrest the Nigerian President.
Tinubu had earlier directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st UN General Assembly. Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement during the General Debate and participate in discussions on issues including development, peace and security, economic growth and international cooperation.
Sowore also alleged that Tinubu was receiving medical treatment in France rather than being on a working vacation. However, the Presidency has described Tinubu’s stay in Europe as part of his annual leave. In an August 30 statement, the State House said the President had travelled to Europe for a three-week vacation, while its September 18 updates showed Tinubu holding engagements in Paris, including a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron.
The AAC candidate further questioned the circumstances surrounding the President’s absence from the UNGA and referred to previous instances involving former Presidents Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and Muhammadu Buhari, drawing comparisons with what he described as limited public information about their activities.
Tinubu’s absence has also attracted reactions from other political figures. The development came after earlier reports in July indicated that the President had planned to attend the 81st UNGA in New York. Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, had said at the time that Tinubu confirmed plans to participate in the gathering.
The 81st UN General Assembly is taking place in New York, with the General Debate scheduled from September 22 to 26 and on September 28. Nigeria will be represented by the delegation led by Shettima.
Sowore’s claims about the reason for Tinubu’s absence and his alleged medical treatment remain allegations by the AAC candidate. The available official information confirms Tinubu’s working vacation in Europe and his decision to send Shettima to represent Nigeria at the UNGA, but does not establish the arrest claim made by Sowore.