'PRESIDENCY IS NO JOKE' - ARODIOGBU TAKES AIM AT MAKINDE OVER 'PODIUM JUMP' CHALLENGE

The APC PCC South East Zonal Cordinator and the National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) South East, Prof. Ijeomah Arodiogbu, has strongly criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over his recent stage-jumping display, declaring that the Nigerian Presidency is not a platform for jokers or public stunts.

Arodiogbu was reacting to Makinde’s action at a political gathering in Akure, Ondo State, where the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) presidential candidate jumped off the podium and challenged other aspirants to do the same as proof of energy and fitness for the highest office.

In a statement, Presstv News Nigeria learnt that the APC South East leader described the episode as a regrettable reduction of a serious national contest to theatrics.

“The Nigerian Presidency is not for jokers,” Arodiogbu stated. “It is not a stage for jumping competitions or cheap publicity stunts. It is a sacred office that demands wisdom, experience, courage and the capacity to take difficult decisions in the interest of over 200 million people.”

He noted that while physical fitness is important, it cannot substitute for the intellectual depth, strategic thinking and steady leadership required to manage Nigeria’s complex challenges.

“Jumping down from a podium may entertain a crowd for a moment, but it does not address insecurity, economic restructuring, infrastructure deficits or the future of our young people,” Arodiogbu said. “Leadership is tested in the quiet rooms where hard choices are made, not on stages where applause is sought.”

The APC chieftain contrasted the display with the record of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who, he said, has confronted long-avoided structural problems through difficult but necessary reforms.

“Those who reduce the presidency to physical theatrics reveal a shallow understanding of the office,” Arodiogbu added. “Nigeria needs serious-minded leaders, not performers. The people will judge accordingly in 2027.”

He reaffirmed the South East APC’s full support for the re-election of President Tinubu, insisting that continuity of purposeful leadership remains the surest path to national recovery and progress.