Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on information and strategy to President Bola Tinubu, has criticized Peter Obi over his remarks on the proposed acquisition of a new presidential aircraft.
The house of representatives committee on national security and intelligence recently recommended the purchase of new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima, citing findings from an investigation into the presidential air fleet.
However, Obi strongly expressed his opposition to the proposal on Monday, highlighting what he perceives as a disconnect between the government and the people, while stressing the need for a more prudent use of resources and prioritization of citizens’ welfare.
In response to Obi’s remarks, Onanuga defended the necessity of acquiring another aircraft in an interview with Punch.
“Does Peter Obi want the President dead? Is that his wish? Does he want him to continue moving around in a rickety plane and die like the VP of Malawi and Iran President? Let him tell us,” Onanuga said.
“The plane he used now, I learnt, was bought during Obasanjo’s era. That was over 20 years ago and I learnt it was a very small plane. The plane developed a problem the last time he travelled to Saudi Arabia. The President had to go from there to the UK on a commercial airline. Even those managing them said the aircraft needed to be replaced.”