The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has condemned the decision of the Federal Government to purchase luxury jets for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, News About Nigeria reports.
The party’s acting national publicity secretary, Muhammed Ishaq, made this known in a statement on Monday.
He noted that the decision to purchase the jets is reckless, insensitive, and a clear testament to the government’s detachment from reality.
Recall that Presidency sources had previously stated that the new jets were intended to enhance the president’s security and comfort during official trips.
However, reacting to this, the PRP criticised the government for prioritising the president’s comfort over the welfare of Nigerians, who are struggling with economic hardship and poverty.
They noted that there was no rationale behind the purchase of the luxury jets, given the state of the country’s economy at this time.
The PRP also stated that the presidential jet purchased in 2003 is only 19 years old, and urged the government to learn from examples of other countries like China and the US, which have used their presidential jets for 24 and 34 years, respectively.
They further called on all well-meaning Nigerians to join them in condemning this reckless spending spree and demanding better governance from their leaders.
“The government’s decision to purchase new aeroplanes for the presidential fleet is a clear testament to their detachment from reality and lack of empathy and accountability.
“They are prioritising luxury spending over the welfare of the people, despite the country’s crippling economic woes and citizens struggling to make ends meet.
“It is unconscionable that the government is indulging in lavish spending sprees when the economy is in ruins, inflation rates are inching towards 40%, and workers’ wages have not been reviewed.
“They should focus on addressing the pressing issues of poverty, unemployment, and economic stagnation.
“Other countries like China and the US have shown that it is possible to manage with fewer resources. China purchased its presidential jet from Boeing in 2000 and has been flying it for 24 years, while the US has a presidential jet manufactured by Boeing that was purchased in 1990 and has been used by six successive American presidents for 34 years,” the Party stated.
They further urged the government to remember that they are not serving themselves but the Nigerian people and maintained that the government should prioritise the needs of the nation and be responsible in spending against dwindling resources.
