Published 8th Jun, 2022

By Joseph Adeiye

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a leading presidential candidate of the All progressives Congress (APC), missed his steps and almost fell off a short flight of stairs as he stepped up to address the Special National Convention of the party on Tuesday night.

Tinubu, former governor of Lagos State and national leader of the APC, dampened the confidence some may have about his ability and health. His hands could be seen visibly shaking as he read his speech to address delegates at the convention.

Tinubu celebrated his 70th birthday in March and has been steadfast with his presidential ambition ever since. However, critics have raised questions touching the subject of his failing health.

Members of the APC and his supporters have highlighted his comprehensive campaign as proof of robust health. Tinubu’s staggering at Eagles Square on Tuesday evening betrays his claims of vitality.

“The candidate to select must give us victory in the next national election. I sincerely believe I am the person,” Tinubu read from papers trembling in his hand.

“My experience as Executive Governor of Lagos makes me unique among other aspirants. I am competent to start from day one.

“I am a serious man with a serious purpose. I have delivered electoral victory after electoral victory. Let me be the man who can best articulate the vision of progress and development.”

Live capture from Twitter

After delivering his speech, Tinubu proceeded to leave the podium but staggered at the start of his return to his seat. He walked cautiously on his journey to and from his seat.

The implications of Tinubu’s apparent lack of coordination, however slight or obvious, are many.

Concerns over his health will not go away, not after his exposure in that short walk to the podium, especially in the light of the Muhammadu Buhari precedent and his frequent medical trips abroad.

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