Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Labour Party in the upcoming 2023 election, has strongly criticized the Federal Government’s intentions to purchase new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and his deputy, Kashim Shettima.
According to reports, the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence has requested the Federal Government to procure new jets for Tinubu and Shettima.
Expressing his dismay, Obi condemned the move, stating that it showcases the government’s “extreme insensitivity to the struggles of its citizens” in the face of the current economic hardship plaguing the nation.
Taking to his social media platform, Obi emphasized that the escalating insecurity, poverty, hunger, and homelessness in the country highlight the growing disconnect between the government and the people.
The former governor of Anambra stressed that such a decision is unacceptable, urging a more compassionate allocation of resources that prioritizes the welfare of citizens in light of the challenging situation the nation is facing.
Obi expressed, “It is evident that our presidential jets, which were purchased when most Nigerians could afford basic necessities, now have an average age of 12 years. As our country grapples with significant challenges and a high debt profile, our citizens are in dire need.”
“Rather than indulging in luxuries, our focus should be on alleviating their suffering and finding solutions to their problems. For too long, our leadership’s skewed priorities have diverged from the needs of society, and that is why our nation is currently heading in a downward trajectory.”
To illustrate further, Obi drew a striking comparison, highlighting the stark contrasts between Nigeria and the United States. Despite Nigeria’s GDP of $252 billion and per capita income of $1,080, significantly lower than the USA’s GDP of $25 trillion and per capita income of $80,000, Nigeria is planning to spend $15 million on the Vice President’s residence, while the US Vice President resides in Number 1 Observatory Circle, a house built over a century ago, valued at approximately $7.5 million by a reputable real estate company.
“It is high time we put an end to this impunity, insensitivity, and shamelessness, and redirect our focus towards the needs of our people. Education, healthcare, and uplifting our citizens out of poverty must take precedence,” Obi concluded passionately.
