Vice President Kashim Shettima has come to the defense of President Bola Tinubu, condemning the widespread mockery of the president's slip during the Democracy Day celebrations on June 12. Speaking at a PEBEC Town Hall meeting at the Presidential Villa's Banquet Hall, Shettima expressed disappointment and dismay at the negative portrayal of the president.
During the celebration, President Tinubu missed a step while climbing onto a military parade vehicle at Eagle Square, tripping and almost falling on the Land Rover. The incident sparked a frenzy on social media, with many Nigerians making light of the situation and mocking the president.
According to Dailypost, Shettima lamented the fact that some Nigerians chose to celebrate the president's momentary slip, describing it as "disheartening," "disenchanting," "stultifying," and "heartbreaking." He emphasized the need to show respect and dignity to the office of the president, regardless of political affiliations or differences.
The vice president's comments were met with applause from the audience, who shared his sentiment and condemned the mockery of the president. Shettima's defense of the president is seen as a show of solidarity and support, highlighting the importance of maintaining dignity and respect in public discourse.
Shettima's remarks serve as a reminder that public figures, including the president, deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, even in moments of vulnerability. The incident and subsequent mockery have sparked a wider conversation about the need for greater empathy and civility in public life.