THE Presidency has strongly criticized Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate, for his condemnation of the Federal Government’s plan to acquire new aircraft for President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Obi, in a statement released on Monday, June 17, characterized the decision as insensitive, particularly in light of the economic hardships faced by many Nigerians due to government policies.
Reacting swiftly to Obi’s remarks, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, rebuked Obi, labeling his comments as insensitive. Onanuga questioned whether Obi preferred risking the President’s life by having him fly in unreliable aircraft.
Speaking to Punch, Onanuga remarked, “Does Peter Obi wish for the President’s demise? Is that his desire? Does he expect the President to continue using decrepit planes and face risks similar to the Vice Presidents of Malawi and Iran? He needs to clarify his stance. Ensuring the President’s safety is a fundamental responsibility of any responsible government. The current plane in use, reportedly procured during Obasanjo’s administration over 20 years ago, has been experiencing issues, including a recent incident during the President’s trip to Saudi Arabia, necessitating his transfer to the UK via commercial flight. Even those managing the aircraft have advised its replacement.”
Onanuga emphasized the necessity of acquiring new aircraft, noting that the National Assembly had officially recommended the purchase. He also criticized Peter Obi for what he described as unnecessary comments.
Recently, the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence also urged the Federal Government to procure new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
