Oby Ezekwesili, former Minister of Education, has accused the presidency and the National Assembly of acting like “bandits” against the Nigerian people.
Her remarks came during an interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today, where she condemned the recent purchase of a new presidential aircraft.
Ezekwesili expressed concern about the rising poverty levels in Nigeria, criticizing the government’s priorities. “The current presidential aircraft is 19 years old. Yet, they are attempting to justify buying a new one,” she said. “It’s insulting to the intelligence of Nigerians.”
She didn’t mince words in her criticism of the country’s political leadership. “The executive, the presidency, the National Assembly—they’ve collectively chosen to act as bandits against Nigerians. It’s unimaginable that in the face of severe hunger and widespread poverty, the government’s focus would be on acquiring luxury items like a new aircraft for the president.”
She also blasted the construction of a N20 billion home for the vice president and the extravagant spending on cars and perks for members of the National Assembly and the executive. “What exactly is this government prioritizing?” she asked.
Furthermore, Ezekwesili warned against sympathizing with President Tinubu, accusing him of endorsing former President Muhammadu Buhari’s policies. “This administration supported every decision made under Buhari,” she said. “They were complicit in the economic devastation. Nigerians tend to forget quickly, but the political class remains responsible.”
She emphasized the need for better governance, highlighting the importance of political literacy and education for the country’s progress.
