Addressing the concerns surrounding the controversial acquisition of the Airbus A330 jet by President Bola Tinubu’s government, the apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has pointed out the safety issues raised regarding the 19-year-old Boeing B737-700 jet purchased during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.
The purchase of the Airbus A330 at approximately N150 billion has generated mixed reactions among Nigerians. While some have criticized the decision due to the country’s economic challenges, others argue that the Nigerian President should have a more reliable aircraft, especially considering past incidents of malfunctions with the old jet.
During the unveiling of the new jet, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, mentioned that the decision was influenced by a parliamentary investigative hearing questioning the safety record and cost efficiency of the B737-700(BBJ), particularly after it malfunctioned during a trip to Saudi Arabia.
In response to the controversy, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the factional Secretary-General of Ohanaeze, emphasized the paramount importance of the Nigerian President’s safety. He cited recent tragic incidents involving high-ranking officials like former Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Malawi’s Vice President Dr. Saulos Chilima as reminders of potential dangers that officials face without adequate safety measures.
Isiguzoro highlighted the need to prioritize President Tinubu’s well-being to prevent similar tragedies in Nigeria and questioned the silence of critics who previously overlooked lavish acquisitions by members of the 10th National Assembly. He urged President Tinubu to address the concerns of the Nigerian people promptly to alleviate their suffering.