The Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Digital and New Media, O’tega Ogra, has defended the inclusion of President Tinubu’s sons, Seyi and Yinka, in the presidential delegation on the state visit to Qatar.

Tinubu will visit Qatar on a state visit scheduled for March 2 and 3, 2024, but he will be accompanied by 38 others.

The Inclusion of the president’s sons has since sparked outrage on social media amid protests in different parts of the country over the level of hardship.

Reacting in a post via his official X account on Tuesday, Ogra defended the inclusion of the duo by the president, noting that it’s a norm and not uncommon.

He also claimed that such decisions concern security and a way to ‘soften a leader’s public image.’

He wrote, “It is not uncommon for children of world leaders to accompany their parents on foreign trips.

In fact, it is the norm. Canadian PM Trudeau is known to travel with his family on official trips abroad. Same with UK PMs – even if somewhat muted.

“From the public image and diplomacy angle, bringing family members can soften a leader’s public image and aid in diplomatic relations by showcasing a relatable, family-oriented side.

“For some leaders, taking their children on such trips is a way of educating them about world affairs and different cultures. Others do it to maintain some semblance of family life, despite the demands of public office, and for security considerations.

“The Obamas, Clintons, Bushs, Trumps and others went on tons of foreign trips whilst in office with their families.

“We really need to stop majoring in minors in the name of castigating everything.” (Vanguard)

Update news