2023: Why I pulled out of presidential debate, Tinubu reveals

Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has revealed why he was not present at the presidential debate on Sunday.

The open debate which was organised by the Center for Democracy and Development (CDD) aired on Arise TV.

It was put together so Nigerians could hear from frontline presidential candidates ahead of the February 2023 election.

Three presidential candidates, Mr Peter Obi of the Labour Party, LP, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of the New Nigerian People’s Party, NNPP, and Chief Kola Abiola of the People’s Redemption Party, PRP attended the meeting.

The People’s Democratic Party, PDP flagbearer, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who is out of the country, was represented by his running mate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa.

But the Jagaban of Borgu was conspicuously absent.

Giving reasons for his absence, Tinubu cited hectic campaign schedules and resolve not to give any Television station preference among others.

He revealed this in a statement signed by the chief Spokesman of the Tinubu/Shettima presidential campaign council, Festus Keyamo.

“Many radio and TV networks in Nigeria have indicated interests to host such debates and out of deference to other TV and radio stations, our candidate will not be making selective appearances in some networks, whilst ignoring others. As President of Nigeria, by the Special Grace of God, he intends to treat all persons and businesses fairly and equally.

“The busy and hectic campaign schedules of Asiwaju Tinubu will not permit him to honour all such invitations by different radio and TV networks, hence our decision for him not to start with one TV station and later ignore others.

“Our candidate had long before now realised the importance of speaking directly to Nigerians and shortly after unfolding his Action Plan as President embarked on Town Hall meetings beginning with his interaction with the Business Community and other stakeholders in Kano followed by the Town Hall meeting and presentation by experts last week in Lagos.

“Tomorrow (Monday), he will be interacting with Agro and Commodity Groups in Minna, Niger State.

“Whilst we thank Arise TV for the invitation, we want to assure Nigerians that we shall continue to hold these debate groups and Nigerians in high esteem. Nigerians will hear from our candidate loud and clear through other forums.