Amidst criticisms from Nigerians, President Bola Tinubu has shelved plans to watch the Africa Cup of Nations final between Nigeria Super Eagles and host country Côte d’Ivoire, delegating Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him and lead the presidential team in support of the Nigerian team.

Mr Tinubu’s decision not to show up at the final game on Sunday was communicated in a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, spokesperson for Mr Shettima, on Saturday.

Patrice Motsepe, the head of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), had confirmed that Mr Tinubu will be present at the stadium on Sunday to watch the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

“Nigeria must put in a bid,” Mr Motsepe said. “The Nigerian president (Bola Tinubu) is coming to watch the final on Sunday. I will have a conversation with him about it.”

Mr Motsepe’s statement had elicited reactions from Nigerians, many who criticised the president for failing to show up to console victims of Plateau Christmas Eve massacre that claimed the lives of over 200 citizens and recent Bodija explosion in Ibadan that killed five and destroyed several houses.

An X user, @holusojy70, said, “He didn’t deem it fit to visit the people of plateau during their grieving period, Ibadan blast and the victims werent of importance to Him but AFCON final is of great importance to him.”

“I hope our goals won’t be gone like SUBSIDY. He should please stay in Aso Rock and watch from there. The team will bring the trophy home for him. Let him be in charge of the economy and Shetima in charge of security. We would appreciate Obi to be with the supporters,” @oladare_ayod said on X.