Peter Obi Criticises Call For New Aircraft For Vice President Shettima.
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticised the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkareem Lawan, for suggesting the Federal Government purchase a new aircraft for Vice President Kashim Shettima. Lawan had claimed Shettima’s life was at risk due to faults with the current presidential aircraft used for official engagements, urging the government to take action following a recent incident in the United States.
Responding to the Speaker’s remarks, Obi condemned the call as “insensitive” amidst Nigeria’s economic difficulties, suggesting that such concerns are misplaced given the country’s current state of affairs. Posting on social media platform X, Obi highlighted the severe economic and social challenges confronting Nigeria.
“I just read a disturbing comment… that the life of the Vice President is in danger because of the faults recorded in his official aircraft,” Obi wrote. “The leader went further to urge the Federal Government to purchase a new aircraft for the Vice President. In making such a remark now, the Speaker is insensitive and obviously unconcerned about the prevailing economic situation in the country.”
Obi underscored the stark reality facing Nigerians, emphasising issues such as poverty, hunger, and poor infrastructure. He cited statistics showing Nigeria as one of the eleven worst-governed African nations over the past decade and among the 20 countries experiencing the highest levels of hunger. He noted that Nigeria’s per capita income has dropped from $1,700 in 2023 to $1,109 this year, underscoring the urgent need for leaders to focus on the country’s pressing needs.
Obi also drew attention to the ongoing energy crisis, noting the frequent collapse of the national electricity grid, which has occurred eight times this year alone, severely impacting small businesses and households.
He urged public officials to prioritise solutions to Nigeria’s challenges and focus on initiatives that benefit citizens rather than luxurious expenses. “Our present precarious situation calls only for minimal and highly contributory inevitable travels,” Obi said. “It is time to sit down and find solutions to our litany of challenges for the wellbeing of the people and the development of our country.”
Concluding, Obi called for a commitment to selfless service among Nigerian leaders, stressing that the focus should remain on alleviating the suffering of the populace. “Nigeria will rise again if the leadership can commit to selfless service,” he stated, questioning the necessity of a new jet for the Vice President and the tangible benefits of government travel in addressing Nigeria’s current challenges.
