Presidency Respond to Bishop Kukah, That Tinubu is a Reformer and not a "Accidental Leader."

The Presidency has addressed the remarks made by the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, who referred to President Tinubu as an “accidental leader.” In the official response, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, asserted that Tinubu is thoroughly equipped for the nation’s highest position and is diligently working to improve the country. “He is not an accidental leader; he is committed to ensuring a positive transformation in this nation,” he emphasized. “Does he appear to be one at all?” “The individual (Tinubu) is not an accidental leader; he has adequately prepared for this role. He has stated that he has been preparing for it and is striving to elevate this country beyond its current state; he is making every effort.” “Due to his preparation for the office, he is implementing numerous reforms, addressing various sectors, and working to ensure that the nation experiences a significant turnaround.” Onanuga noted that Tinubu has demonstrated a reformist approach, enacting changes in sectors such as taxation, the oil industry, and education. He also underscored Tinubu’s initiatives to enhance the business climate, attract foreign direct investment, and support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Onanuga contended that “Reforms do not occur through quick fixes; it requires time to effect change, and he is committed to this process.” “He is undertaking reforms and is the first to recognize that there will be impacts on individuals, and he is making every effort to assist those affected so that they are not left behind.” “He is enacting numerous reforms in Nigeria, including in taxation and the oil sector; the extent of his reforms is significant,” Onanuga asserted. The outspoken Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Kukah, was reported on Sunday as having characterized many of Nigeria’s leaders, including President Tinubu, as accidental leaders who have come to power without sufficient preparation in a rapidly changing world. Kukah, during his keynote address at the inauguration of Start-Rite School’s new building and the 4th Amaka Ndoma-Egba Memorial Lecture in Abuja on Sunday, expressed concern over the persistent deficiency of knowledge among Nigerian leaders. He remarked, “None of them were adequately equipped prior to taking office, particularly in an era where the requirements of leadership are swiftly changing.” Kukah highlighted that this ongoing issue hampers Nigeria's capacity to effectively address intricate political and economic issues.