Yes, it is evidence of absence.
I suppose you could say it's evidence, but it's not particularly convincing evidence.
A new school of Bible scholarship came about in the 18th and 19th centuries that concluded the New Testament had been written long after the events and had many fictional elements. That was the start of "liberal" Christian theology. For example, Pontius Pilate was regarded as fictitious, because they couldn't find any historical evidence for him.
The Bible was the only identified source that talked about Pontius Pilate as being governor of Judea. As a result, many people questioned whether he ever truly held that position up until 1961, when the Italian archaeologist, Dr Frova discovered a limestone block while he was excavating an ancient theatre near Caesarea Maritima. Although the inscription had actually been partly removed, enough remained of its Latin writing, which when translated, displayed; Pontius Pilate, Prefect of Judea, precisely how the gospel author Matthew defined him. Keep in mind, Prefect is the Latin title, Governor is its English equivalent.
Since then more historical information about Pilate has been discovered. Now nobody alleges he was fictional.
I believe it was his tenure as Governor of Judah that was regarded as fictitious, rather than being a totally made up person.
This is why unnamed 'apparitions' have to appear from time to time.