By Ayomide Otitoju
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticized President Bola Tinubu for approving the purchase of a new presidential jet while millions of Nigerians continue to lack access to essential services, including healthcare.
Speaking on Sunday Politics, Obi condemned the expenditure, describing it as insensitive and a reflection of leadership disconnected from the struggles of ordinary citizens. “If I become president, I will not buy a new jet. I don’t need one,” Obi declared. “You can travel anywhere without a private jet. I cannot justify spending N150 billion on a jet when over 80 percent of our primary healthcare centers are not functioning.”
Obi, who served as Governor of Anambra State, dismissed arguments that security concerns warrant such high-end acquisitions by public officeholders. “As a governor, I drove a Peugeot 406 for four years. I never used bulletproof cars,” he said. “Nobody wants to harm you if you’re doing the right thing. It’s when you do wrong that you begin to fear for your life.”
He argued that public office should come with a sense of sacrifice, insisting that insecurity should not be used as a justification for extravagance by those in power. “If your people are dying, you should be ready to die,” he said.
Obi accused President Tinubu of lacking empathy and compassion, two attributes he believes are essential for national leadership. “What Nigerians want is a president who cares—who shows compassion,” he stated. “Today, we have a country without compassion, and leadership without compassion is a minus. It’s not good for any nation.”
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Obi said Nigerians need a leader who prioritizes the welfare of citizens over personal luxury. “If elected, I will be that president,” he affirmed.
