On Tuesday, October 29, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, spoke out against the demand for a new aircraft for Vice President Kashim Shettima, calling it insensitive in light of recent events in the United States.
This response came after Abdulkareem Lawan, the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, claimed that Shettima’s life was at risk due to issues with the presidential aircraft he uses for official duties.
Obi expressed concern that the Speaker was not acknowledging the serious economic hardships facing many Nigerians. He posted on X, stating: “I just read a disturbing comment attributed to one of our supposed political leaders about the Vice President’s life being in danger because of faults in his aircraft.”
He continued, “To suggest that the government should buy a new aircraft at this time shows a lack of awareness about the economic struggles we are enduring. Nigerians are facing immense hardship, and such a call feels provocative.”
Obi pointed out that Nigeria is grappling with extreme poverty, hunger, and a failing national electricity grid, which has collapsed multiple times this year. He noted, “Our country is facing issues that should be prioritized by committed leaders, not calls for luxury.”
He emphasized the need for leaders to focus on solving the country’s pressing challenges rather than pursuing unnecessary luxury. “What does Nigeria’s Vice President need a new jet for? We must consider what value these trips are adding to our current situation.”
Obi urged the President, Vice President, and other public officials to limit travel to only essential trips, focusing instead on the wellbeing of the people and the development of the country. “Nigeria can rise again if our leadership is dedicated to selfless service,” he concluded.
