Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Monday criticized the Federal Government’s plan to purchase new aircraft for the presidential fleet.
Obi called the move insensitive given the economic hardships faced by Nigerians due to government policies.
In response, the Presidency labeled Obi’s remarks as insensitive, questioning if he preferred risking the President’s life by continuing to use faulty aircraft.
The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said, “Does Peter Obi want the President dead? Is that his wish?
Does he want him to continue moving around in a rickety plane and die like the VP of Malawi and the President of Iran? This is a basic necessity for any sane government. You can’t toy with your President’s welfare.”
Onanuga added, “The current plane was bought during former President Obasanjo’s era, over 20 years ago. It recently developed a problem when the President traveled to Saudi Arabia, forcing him to continue to the UK on a commercial airline. Even the aircraft managers recommended it be replaced.
Why would any right-thinking person want the President to keep using it? The National Assembly officially recommended buying new ones. Sometimes, Peter Obi makes unnecessary statements.”
The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence recently urged the FG to buy new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima.
The recommendation was made following an investigation into the status of the presidential air fleet, and comes months after three planes from the fleet were marked for sale.
Obi, reacting on his X handle, described the move as unacceptable and insensitive to the suffering of Nigerians.
He said, “It is unfortunate that while the country faces an economic crisis, marked by hyperinflation, a falling currency, and widespread poverty, the FG is contemplating new presidential jets.
This shows a clear disconnect between the government and the people. It is unacceptable as the country demands a more compassionate use of resources, prioritizing citizens’ welfare.”
He continued, “Our presidential jets have an average age of 12 years, purchased when most Nigerians could afford necessities. Now, with significant challenges and a high debt profile, our citizens are in greater need. Instead of adding to luxuries, we should focus on alleviating their suffering.”
Obi also noted, “While we recently refurbished the old VP residence with $2m, the over 100-year-old US Vice President’s house has only undergone major renovations twice, funded by taxpayers; in 1993 and 2021. Every new US VP can finance minor refurbishing from personal funds.”
He concluded, “It’s time to stop this impunity, insensitivity, and focus on the needs of our people. We must prioritize education, healthcare, and lifting our citizens out of poverty. Let’s work together to build a nation that truly serves its people, not just a few.”
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