Politics

Peter Obi Demands Transparency on Presidential Jets from Tinubu Administration

Published by Tope Fakinlede on August 21st, 2024.

Peter Obi Demands Transparency on Presidential Jets from Tinubu Administration

Peter Obi

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate from last year, has called for clarity regarding both the newly acquired and old presidential jets under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

In a post on his X account on Tuesday night, Obi urged the current administration to disclose detailed information about the recently purchased presidential jet and the old jets that are being sold.

According to Daily Trust, President Tinubu recently used a newly acquired Airbus A330 for a working visit to France. This aircraft, a twin-aisle passenger model, was bought for $100 million last month and is now registered with the Nigerian Air Force. The purchase comes amid ongoing controversies, including a French court’s recent decision to release one of three presidential jets previously seized in a legal dispute involving the Ogun State Government and the Chinese firm Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Limited.

Obi emphasized that despite the debates and denials surrounding the new jet, it is now part of Nigeria’s fleet, and taxpayers have a right to know the specifics of its cost, age, and operational history. He also called for transparency regarding the disposal of the old jets, including their number, age, and the reasons for their sale.

He argued that failing to provide this information would undermine public trust and respect for the government. “A presidential jet is a significant symbol of national sovereignty,” Obi noted. “The costs associated with transporting the president should be a matter of public accountability. Nigerians deserve full disclosure on this new aircraft.”