A video surfaced in South Africa last week, stirring emotions in Nigeria, depicting President Bola Tinubu seemingly snubbed by the South African leader during his inauguration.
However, those focusing on that video are missing the mark. They should turn their attention to videos showcasing how Mr. Tinubu perceives them.
Reports from SaharaReporters indicate that Tinubu arrived in Pretoria on a private jet owned by Gilbert Chagoury, his business partner. Chagoury’s Hitech Construction Company, entrusted with the contentious N15 trillion, 700km Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project, has Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, on its board.
The Tinubus seem unconcerned with conflicts of interest or ethical dilemmas. Despite the APC’s pledge to eliminate the costly presidential fleet of around 10 jets, under Tinubu’s leadership, reports suggest some jets faced maintenance issues.
Shortly before Tinubu’s trip to Pretoria, the National Assembly initiated the purchase of new jets for him and Vice-President Kashim Shettima. The House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence approved the acquisition.
The media often sensationalizes such government announcements, only to neglect follow-up investigations. While attention is drawn to the acquisition of new jets amidst Nigeria’s economic challenges, questions remain unanswered.
Nigerians should focus less on Tinubu’s overseas ventures and more on his governance in Nigeria. The extravagant spending amid citizens’ sacrifices raises concerns about the government’s priorities.
Tinubu’s penchant for lavish convoys with high-end SUVs adds to the disconnect from the populace experiencing economic hardships. The administration’s significant expenditure on vehicles and renovations raises eyebrows.
- ₦212,712,766.59 for vehicle procurement on June 22, 2023
- ₦161,250,000.00 for five Nissan Urvan buses
- ₦61,275,000.00 for additional vehicles
Moreover, substantial sums were spent on property acquisitions and renovations, drawing criticism from the public.
- ₦1,200,000,000.00 for new vehicles
- ₦200,000,000.00 for SUVs
- ₦191,497,674.41 for three Toyota Prado SUVs
The pattern of excessive spending extends to luxury property renovations, raising concerns over prudent financial management.
- ₦1,354,258,408.58 for property acquisition and renovation
- ₦773,423,288.50 for additional property renovation
- ₦1,877,305,494.92 for residential quarters renovation
The substantial expenses on renovations and construction within the State House and beyond further underscore the administration’s financial priorities.
- ₦752,236,350.10 on Dodan Barracks renovation
- ₦3,500,000,000.00 on State House office complex
The focus on extravagant spending rather than public welfare reflects a concerning trend in governance, echoing past administrations’ shortfalls.
Despite the scrutiny and criticism, the administration appears set on obtaining new jets, showcasing a disregard for economic prudence.
The ultimate concern lies not in the opinions of other world leaders towards Tinubu, but in Tinubu’s priorities and legacy for his people after his tenure.
The Tinubu Bus Stop serves as a symbol along the road of global economic inequalities.