Social media erupted with reactions following the circulation of a video depicting President Bola Tinubu’s stumble while attempting to board a presidential parade vehicle at Eagle Square in Abuja.
The incident occurred during the 2024 Democracy Day celebrations on Wednesday.
President Tinubu had arrived at Eagle Square for the ceremony and was climbing the parade truck when he misstepped momentarily.
Despite the slip, he quickly regained his balance with the help of his security aides and continued with the proceedings.
Dada Olusegun, the Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Social Media, downplayed concerns over the incident.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote: “Mr President missed his step while climbing into the truck at the June 12 Democracy Day celebration and tripped. It was a mild misstep. He immediately went on with the ceremonial rounds. No issues.”
However, social media has been flooded with varied reactions, reflecting a spectrum of opinions on the incident. Here are some notable comments:
Ibrahim Kalayi: “Why would anyone find it funny that the President tripped and fell? Let’s be guided please.”
Rachael Onyedi: “Old man, go and rest. You have done well for yourself and the generation unborn. What are you still looking for? You’re just there enjoying our suffering….”
Oluwa Fe: “Enemies within and enemies outside looking for the President’s mistakes as if the man isn’t human. They will never see anything good about him, just waiting for his mistake. Maybe that’s why God has always made him a winner in almost all his fights.”
Olayode Ogunmola: “I watched it live. He missed his steps, and it could happen to anyone! Joe Biden, the American President, once missed his steps while boarding a plane. We should wish our leaders well.”
Boma Ibim: “I hope our President is doing fine? Even as a young guy, I miss my steps, let alone someone like Baba Tinubu… It’s not a new thing. Even those abusing him can’t remember how many times they’ve missed their steps.”
Oyelere Tawfique: “This man just keeps on disgracing himself. Why not honourably tender a resignation letter? Is it a must? Our politicians and greediness, Sha. You’re old.”
Aisha Baggio: “A clear indication even God is not happy with this administration. People are dying of hunger and hardship, and the President is busy unveiling activities for Democracy Day. You people should have a rethink before it’s too late.”
Àràkunrin Olabisi (@OlabisiLaw): “It’s normal to fall. The most important thing was to rise again, which he firmly did. Nigeria will rise and be great again.”
@xfactum: ”People are really looking for this man’s downfall.”
Maibitil Mni (@Maibitil_): “National Disgrace on National TV at Democracy Day. After blowing lies on TV, his body couldn’t hold those lies and chose to go down lowwwwwww for a minute.”
@dammygtnet: “I will never laugh at this. This can happen to anyone. Even Joe Biden once experienced the same. My issue with President Tinubu is about his insensitive policies, which the populace is suffering from. He should do better or be booted out.”
@Mr_francis55: “Oh no, God. Hope he didn’t injure himself.”
@DrJHHyat: “I hope Mr. President is fine. The state of the economy came to mind.”