Criticism was directed at the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government by the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party for acquiring a new presidential jet valued at $100m without National Assembly approval.
The insensitivity of the government was highlighted by PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, and Deputy Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, pointing out the challenges faced by Nigerians in meeting basic needs.
Similarly, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate’s campaign spokesman, Yunusa Tanko, expressed concern over the President’s decision to prioritize personal comfort over the welfare of Nigerians during these difficult economic times.
President Tinubu recently embarked on a visit to France using a newly acquired Airbus A330 business jet.
The aircraft is now registered to the Nigerian Air Force.
This model, commonly used as a twin-aisle passenger aircraft, was bought last month for $100m.
Images of the presidential jet were shared by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, revealing the modern features of the aircraft to the public.
The replacement of the older Boeing B737-700(BBJ) with this new jet, purchased during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration 19 years ago, signifies a significant upgrade to the presidential fleet.
In an interview with NewsNow, the LP spokesman lamented the lack of consideration shown by the President in purchasing a luxury jet while many Nigerians struggle in poverty.
Tanko emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, demanding answers on the source of funds for the aircraft in a country where basic necessities are scarce.
The purchase of the presidential aircraft amidst national hardships was condemned by PDP Deputy Publicity Secretary, Abdullahi, as a reflection of the APC-led Federal Government’s lack of seriousness.
Abdullahi criticized the government for engaging in projects that do not benefit the nation and disregarding the voices of Nigerians in need.
Osadolor, the PDP National Deputy Youth Leader, also voiced disapproval of the government’s actions, emphasizing the insensitive nature of the purchases made during challenging times for the country.
President Tinubu departed for France in the new Airbus A330 business jet with key aides, departing from Abuja at 4.08 pm.
Earlier on Monday, sources confirmed the arrival of the new aircraft in Abuja after a flight from France, signaling Tinubu’s planned trip using the new jet.
The recent modification of the jet is part of the resolution of a legal dispute involving a Chinese firm and the Ogun State Government over presidential aircraft seized by a French court.
Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Limited, the Chinese firm, decided to release one of the three presidential aircraft to facilitate a diplomatic meeting between President Tinubu and the French President Emmanuel Macron.
Scheduled participation at the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation in Beijing, China, from September 3 to 8, 2024, is just weeks away for President Tinubu amid the dispute.
Reports in July indicated that the new aircraft, valued at $100m (N150bn), was seen in Germany with the seal of the President of Nigeria on its tail livery.
The luxurious aircraft, equipped with features like a bedroom, office space, conference, and dining room, will have its maiden trip with the President on board on Monday.
This will mark Tinubu’s 23rd foreign trip since assuming office approximately 15 months ago.
Criticism of the purchase of the presidential jet from the Service Wide Vote has come from some former principal officers in the Senate, condemning the lack of transparency around the issue.
The controversy surrounding the acquisition of new aircraft for the President and Vice-President emerged when the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence approved the purchase to replace existing faulty and unsafe presidential jets.
Senate President GodsWill Akpabio clarified that while the Red Chamber had not yet endorsed the purchase, they would be willing to approve it upon the President’s request to ensure the safety and welfare of the Nigerian people.
Reacting to criticisms, the Presidency defended the need for new presidential aircraft, citing safety concerns and dismissing objections from individuals like Peter Obi who labeled the plan as insensitive.
Controversy escalated when a French court judgment favored seizing the new aircraft, belonging to a Chinese firm, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Company Limited.
Pertaining to the issue, a former Minority leader criticized the discretionary use of Service Wide votes, highlighting the lack of accountability and proper appropriation processes.
Another former lawmaker condemned the President for purchasing the jet without appropriate budgetary approval, emphasizing the importance of following due process.
Civil society organizations also condemned the use of Service Wide Votes for the acquisition of a presidential jet, expressing concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in government spending.
In reaction to the ongoing controversy, various voices have raised questions about the governance and oversight roles of the National Assembly, calling for more accountability and diligence in decision-making processes.