Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over a recent suggestion that the Vice President’s life may be at risk due to faults in his official aircraft.
The suggestion, reportedly made by a political leader, was accompanied by a call for the Federal Government to purchase a new aircraft for the Vice President. Obi criticized the statement as “insensitive,” especially given Nigeria’s current economic hardships.
“Nigerians are already enduring extreme hardship,” Obi said, noting that Nigeria exhibits the traits of a “failing state” and highlighting the country’s placement among the eleven worst-governed African nations over the past decade. Additionally, Nigeria is one of the world’s top twenty countries facing hunger, with mass poverty and starvation rates on the rise. “Our per capita income has plummeted from $1,700 in 2023 to $1,109 this year,” he added, underscoring that these pressing issues should be the true focus for responsible leaders.
Obi further pointed to Nigeria’s fragile infrastructure, citing that the national power grid has collapsed eight times this year alone and over a hundred times in the past decade, impacting small businesses and leaving households in darkness. He stressed that many businesses are now failing under the strain of a harsh economic environment, calling on leaders to prioritize the welfare of citizens over luxury purchases.
“Why does the Vice President need a new jet?” Obi questioned, noting that even countries with stronger economies, like Indonesia, prioritize national airline use for their leaders rather than personal aircraft.
He urged the President, Vice President, and public officials to focus on the real issues facing Nigerians, prioritizing essential travel only and working diligently on the country’s significant challenges. Obi closed his statement with a hopeful reminder: “Nigeria can rise again if leaders commit to selfless service. A new Nigeria is possible if we get our priorities right.”
