Phrank Shaibu, a senior aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has defended his principal’s decision to address President Bola Tinubu by his first name, dismissing claims that the practice is disrespectful. Shaibu, who serves as Director of Strategic Communication of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, made the remarks during an appearance on the Mic […]
Phrank Shaibu, a senior aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has defended his principal’s decision to address President Bola Tinubu by his first name, dismissing claims that the practice is disrespectful.
Shaibu, who serves as Director of Strategic Communication of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, made the remarks during an appearance on the Mic On Podcast hosted by Seun Okinbaloye.
He argued that referring to the President as “Bola” should not be considered disrespectful because it is his name, describing criticism of Atiku over the issue as misplaced.
Shaibu also linked Atiku’s manner of addressing the President to his criticism of the economic situation in the country, particularly the impact of the removal of petrol subsidy on Nigerians.
The debate follows repeated criticism of Atiku for referring to the President by his first name during public statements and political engagements.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, had described the practice as disrespectful, while Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo also argued that political differences should not diminish respect for the office of the President.
Former presidential spokesman Akin Osuntokun similarly criticised Atiku’s approach, saying that while the former Vice President has the right to criticise the administration, he should show respect for the office of the President.
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