Banji Alabi Slams “Cruel Celebration” of Tinubu’s Stumble, Calls for National Decency
Banji Alabi Slams “Cruel Celebration” of Tinubu’s Stumble, Calls for National Decency
Lagos-based lawyer and human rights activist, Mr. Banji Alabi, has criticized the wave of mockery and political attacks that followed a viral video showing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu experiencing a brief stumble at a recent event in Turkey.
Speaking on behalf of the Ondo State Eminent Persons Group in a press statement released to Our Heritage Reporter online, Alabi described the public ridicule as insensitive, unnecessary, and a troubling reflection of declining empathy in national discourse.
He urged Nigerians to see the incident as a simple human moment rather than an opportunity for political point-scoring or public shaming.
Full statement reads:
PRESS STATEMENT
Lagos lawyer, human rights activist and convener of Ondo State Eminent Persons Group , Mr. Banji Alabi, has condemned in the strongest terms possible, the insensitive celebration of President Tinubu’s momentary lapse at the Turkey event.
The Ondo State Eminent Persons group , are appalled and dismayed by the unbridled genthusiasm and outright disrespect displayed by some individuals celebrating President Tinubu’s momentary lapse at the Turkey event. The viral videos showing the President falling down are a stark reminder of our shared humanity, not a subject for mockery or ridicule.
We condemn, in the strongest terms possible, the bringing out of a mountain out of a mole hill and the opportunistic politicization of this incident. Have we lost our sense of empathy and decency? Is it not enough that our President is a human being, prone to errors and imperfections? Must we kick him while he’s down?
We urge Nigerians to show restraint, respect, and understanding. A simple fall is not a reflection of a leader’s character or fitness for office. Instead of celebrating, let’s pray for his swift recovery and focus on the pressing issues affecting our nation.
We call on Nigerians to rise above pettiness and show compassion. Let us focus on building a nation where empathy and kindness prevail.
“It’s appalling to see Nigerians reduce a human moment to a spectacle,” Mr. Alabi said. “The President is human, prone to errors, and deserves our empathy, not ridicule.”
In a statement, Mr. Alabi emphasized, “President Tinubu, in his short time in office, has proven himself to be one of the most dynamic and result-oriented leaders Nigeria has ever had. His commitment to infrastructure development, economic growth, and social welfare programs has been unmatched.”
Some notable achievements of President Tinubu’s administration include:
– *Economic Growth*: Consistent GDP growth, attracting foreign investments, and diversifying the economy
– *Infrastructure Development*: Ongoing construction of key roads, bridges, and rail projects
– *Social Welfare*: Expansion of cash transfer programs, improved healthcare, and education initiatives
– *Security*: Strengthened efforts to combat insecurity and improve national stability
– *Anti-Corruption Drive*: Intensified efforts to curb corruption and promote transparency
– *Renewed International Partnerships*: Strengthened ties with global partners, boosting trade and diplomacy
Mr. Alabi urged Nigerians to focus on these achievements and pray for the President’s swift recovery, rather than politicizing the incident. “Let’s build a nation where empathy and kindness prevail,” he concluded.
The statement added, “We stand in solidarity with President Tinubu and the Nigerian people, calling for unity and collective effort towards nation-building. We believe in the Nigeria of our dreams, where every citizen can thrive and prosper.”
The press statement was signed by:
Banji Alabi Esq.
Lagos, Nigeria.
January 27, 2026 🚨.
