Peter Obi
The 2023 Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has called the seizure of aircraft from Nigeria’s Presidential Air Fleet an international embarrassment.
Obi stated that this incident highlights Nigeria’s failed leadership and disregard for the rule of law in a democracy. He remarked, “The ongoing international news about the seizure of three jets from Nigeria’s Presidential fleet is just another example of the many embarrassing situations revealing our leadership failures and our disregard for the rule of law. This event also sheds light on the multiple dimensions of our leadership shortcomings and the insensitivity to the growing plight of the poor in our country.”
He added, “The federal government’s decision to proceed with the purchase of a Presidential jet, despite widespread opposition and the severe economic hardship facing the people, demonstrates a blatant disregard for the welfare of the citizens. Additionally, the embarrassing situation of our country’s Presidential jets being seized due to contractual breaches is yet another indication of the lack of discipline and poor leadership management.
“I have consistently advocated for government accountability and transparency at all levels. The secrecy surrounding the acquisition and management of these aircraft, only revealed when a French court prohibited Nigeria from moving or selling the jets, is deeply troubling. Federal Government assets, which belong to the people, are being treated as private property. Spending $100 million on a Presidential jet in a country that is the poverty capital of the world, with the highest number of out-of-school children and over 40% food inflation, shows a disregard for the people’s struggles.
“This incident has further exposed the indiscipline and lack of respect for the rule of law in our country.
“There are important questions that need answers: To what extent did the Ogun State government adhere to its agreement with the Chinese firm? After the UK court ruling that prohibited the sale of Nigerian property in Liverpool, what actions did the Ogun State and Federal Government take before the French court’s ruling?
“I challenge the federal government to be transparent about this situation and explain to Nigerians how we ended up in this latest international embarrassment.”
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