Outrage Over President Tinubu’s New Presidential Plane Purchase
The recent purchase of a new presidential plane for Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has sparked widespread outrage amidst the country’s severe economic crisis. The plane, valued at approximately $600 million, was acquired as protests erupted nationwide over rising hunger and living costs.
This development comes shortly after President Tinubu’s administration removed fuel subsidies, leading to soaring inflation rates exceeding 30%. While Tinubu argues that the reforms are vital for long-term economic stability, many Nigerians view the expenditure on a new aircraft as a stark contrast to the government’s call for economic sacrifices.
Social media reactions have been intense:
– **@Fdmlearn** criticized the purchase, questioning the fairness of bearing economic hardship while the government spends on a new plane.
– **@RealOlaudah** condemned the decision, labeling it as “wicked” and “insensitive” given the current national difficulties.
Conversely, some, like **@Timi_The_Law**, support the decision, arguing that the plane is an asset for the presidency, not for the individual. They suggest that future presidents will benefit from the purchase.
The plane, a 15-year-old Airbus, replaces the outdated Boeing BBJ 737-700 and was recently released to the Nigerian government after being seized by a Chinese firm in a legal dispute. According to President Tinubu’s media aide, Bayo Onanuga, the new plane will reduce maintenance and fuel costs significantly, claiming it was bought well below market price.
Despite these arguments, it remains unclear if the acquisition was included in the recently approved supplementary budget, which increased the 2024 budget from 28.7 trillion naira to 35.06 trillion naira. The BBC has yet to receive responses from the Senate President and the Office of the National Security Adviser regarding the approval and specifics of the purchase.
