Following the arrival of the much-anticipated presidential jet, former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has called on the Nigerian government to fully disclose details surrounding the purchase of the aircraft.
The acquisition of the jet, which had been shrouded in controversy and denials, has now been confirmed thanks to revelations from a French court, sparking demands for transparency and accountability.
In a statement released yesterday, Obi emphasized that Nigerian taxpayers, whose money was used to procure the jet, deserve to know the full cost of the aircraft, its age, and how long it has been in operation. He also urged the government to provide information on the status of the older jets being decommissioned, including their number, age, and the reasons for their disposal.
“A presidential jet is a significant symbol of national sovereignty and state power,” Obi stated. “The cost of transporting the president is a matter of public accountability, and the citizens of Nigeria should not be denied the right to full disclosure on this new acquisition.”
The former governor further stressed that transparency and accountability are the hallmarks of genuine leadership and that the government would lose nothing but gain respect by providing adequate information to the public. Obi’s remarks come at a time when the administration is facing increased scrutiny over its spending and decision-making processes.
The arrival of the jet, which was confirmed through legal proceedings in France, has reignited debates on government spending priorities in a nation grappling with economic challenges. Critics argue that the funds used for the jet could have been better spent on pressing issues such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
As the nation awaits the government’s response, Obi’s call for transparency is likely to resonate with many Nigerians who are eager for more openness in the management of the country’s resources. Whether the government will heed this call remains to be seen, but the demand for accountability continues to grow louder.
