By Charles Igwe
Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has urged the federal government to refrain from purchasing new aircraft for the presidential fleet and instead focus on alleviating poverty.
In response to the alleged recommendation by the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence for the federal government to buy new aircraft for the presidency, Obi expressed strong disapproval. He described this suggestion as unacceptable and a blatant display of insensitivity to the suffering of the populace.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, Obi stated, “At a time when our country is facing its worst economic crisis, marked by high inflation, a depreciating currency, and widespread poverty, the government is contemplating buying new presidential jets. This demonstrates extreme insensitivity to citizens’ struggles.”
He highlighted the pressing issues of rising insecurity, poverty, hunger, and homelessness, emphasizing that the government’s decision reflects a disconnect from the realities faced by ordinary citizens. Obi argued that the current economic situation demands a more compassionate use of resources, prioritizing the welfare of the people over luxury expenditures.
Obi noted that the existing presidential jets have an average age of 12 years and were acquired during a period when most Nigerians could afford basic necessities. He pointed out that in the current context of economic challenges and high debt, the focus should be on alleviating the suffering of citizens rather than adding to the government’s luxuries.
The statement further criticized the disparity between Nigeria’s spending on the Vice President’s residence and the practices of wealthier nations. Obi highlighted that Nigeria, with a GDP of $252 billion and a per capita income of $1,080, is spending $15 million on the Vice President’s residence. In contrast, the United States, the world’s largest economy with a GDP of $25 trillion and a per capita income of $80,000, houses its Vice President in a residence valued at about $7.5 million, which was built over 100 years ago.
Obi concluded by calling for an end to what he described as impunity, insensitivity, and shamelessness. He urged the government to prioritize education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation, advocating for a shift in focus to address the needs of the people rather than serving the interests of a few.
“Let’s rise to the challenge and build this new Nigeria, which is now more possible than ever before,” Obi stated.
