..we should focus on his achievements, not his fall, says Alabi

A Lagos-based lawyer, human rights activist, and Convener of the Ondo State Eminent Persons Group, Mr. Banji Alabi, has strongly condemned what he described as the insensitive celebration of President Bola Tinubu’s momentary lapse during an event in Turkey.


In a statement he signed and made available to journalists, Alabi said the Ondo State Eminent Persons Group is appalled by the “unbridled enthusiasm and outright disrespect” shown by some individuals who circulated and mocked videos of the President’s fall.


He said the viral footage should serve as a reminder of shared humanity rather than an opportunity for ridicule.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the needless exaggeration and opportunistic politicisation of this incident.

Have we lost our sense of empathy and decency? Is it not enough that the President is human, prone to errors and imperfections? Must we kick him while he’s down?” the statement read.

Alabi urged Nigerians to exercise restraint, respect, and understanding, noting that a simple fall does not define a leader’s character or competence.

“Instead of celebrating such an incident, Nigerians should pray for his swift recovery and focus on the pressing issues affecting the nation. Let us rise above pettiness and build a society where empathy and kindness prevail,” he added.

Describing the public reaction as disturbing, Alabi said it was unfortunate that a human moment had been turned into a spectacle.

He further stated that President Tinubu, within his time in office, has demonstrated dynamic and result-oriented leadership.

He cited the administration’s efforts in infrastructure development, economic reforms, social welfare programmes, security interventions, anti-corruption measures, and renewed international partnerships as notable strides.

Alabi therefore called on Nigerians to pay more attention to these achievements rather than politicising an unfortunate incident.

“We stand in solidarity with President Tinubu and the Nigerian people, and we call for unity and collective commitment to nation-building. We believe in a Nigeria where empathy, compassion, and shared progress define our national life,” he concluded.