Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has sharply criticized Borno State House of Assembly Speaker Abdulkareem Lawan for his demand for a new aircraft for Vice President Kashim Shettima. Lawan’s concerns stem from the perceived risks associated with using a “faulty” presidential aircraft for international duties, particularly after Shettima recently canceled his planned attendance at the Commonwealth Summit in Samoa.
In a statement on X, Obi deemed the request for a new aircraft as profoundly insensitive, arguing that Lawan is out of touch with the pressing economic challenges facing the nation. He emphasized that leaders should prioritize issues that genuinely benefit the public rather than indulging in unnecessary luxuries that burden the populace.
Obi stated, “I came across a troubling statement from a political leader who claims that the Vice President’s life is at risk due to his official aircraft. This leader urged the Federal Government to acquire a new plane for the Vice President. Such comments at this moment reflect a shocking lack of awareness and empathy regarding the economic crisis we are enduring. Nigerians are facing severe hardships.”
He continued, “This provocative request suggests that the speaker is oblivious to the signs of a failed state in Nigeria. Over the past decade, we have ranked among the eleven worst-governed countries in Africa and are among the 20 hungriest nations globally, grappling with escalating poverty, extreme hunger, and starvation.”
Obi pointed out that Nigeria remains the poverty capital of the world, with per capita income plummeting from $1,700 in 2023 to $1,109 this year. He questioned why such critical issues are not the priority for responsible leaders.
“Our national electricity grid has collapsed eight times this year alone and 105 times in the past decade, resulting in significant losses for small businesses and leaving countless households in darkness. Many businesses have shut down or faced distress over the last 15 months due to harsh economic conditions. Shouldn’t we focus on addressing these challenges rather than catering to selfish desires for unnecessary luxury?”
Obi further questioned the necessity of a new jet for the Vice President, asking what tangible benefits such trips provide given the current circumstances. He cited Indonesia, which purchased a Presidential jet only after experiencing sustainable economic growth of over 6% annually for a decade, allowing the country to significantly boost its GDP and GDP per capita. “In Indonesia, the Vice President primarily travels on the national airline, Garuda Indonesia. Given that we recently acquired a new aircraft, it should be reserved for essential trips by the President and Vice President.”
He concluded by urging the President, Vice President, and all public officials to recognize the urgency of the current situation, advocating for minimal yet impactful travel. “Now is the time for our leaders to unite and find solutions to our myriad challenges for the welfare of our people and the development of our nation. Nigeria can rise again if our leaders commit to selfless service.”
