The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo Socio-Cultural Organization, has counter Peter Obi’s move against acquiring new presidential aircrafts, saying the safety of President Bola Tinibu and his vice, Kashim Shettima is non-negotiable.
Obi, a former presidential candidate had on Monday said the Federal Government’s plan to buy new presidential jets demonstrated extreme insensitivity to citizen’s struggles.
But Ohanaeze, in a statement issued by its Secretary General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said the body wished to unequivocally address the recent statements made by Obi concerning the Federal Government’s plans to acquire new Presidential fleets for President Tinubu.
“It is imperative to clarify that Mr. Obi’s personal opinions and opposition to this decision do not align with the views of the entire Igbo Nation represented by Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
“While we acknowledge Mr. Obi’s concerns about the economic situation in Nigeria and the need to address pressing issues such as insecurity, poverty, and hunger, Ohanaeze Ndigbo firmly believes that the safety and security of our nation’s leaders should be of paramount importance.
“The current Presidential fleets, acquired over two decades ago during the Obasanjo era, present significant security risks and may impede the President and Vice President from fulfilling crucial official duties,” Ohanaeze said.
The group said in the light of recent tragic events involving the use of outdated aircraft that caused the deaths of President of Iran and Vice President of Malawi, it is clear that upgrading the Presidential fleets is essential to safeguarding the lives of the nation’s leaders.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo wholeheartedly supports the Federal Government’s decision to procure new Presidential fleets for the protection of President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima,” it stated.
According to Ohanaeze, “We understand Mr. Obi’s genuine concerns for the Nigerian people and his aspirations for a better economy.
“We urge him to collaborate with President Tinubu and provide constructive input and support to ensure that policies are implemented to alleviate the hardships faced by our citizens.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains dedicated to fostering unity, progress, and the well-being of all Nigerians, and we firmly believe that by working together, we can strive towards a brighter future for our nation.”
