The special adviser on information and strategy to President Bola Tinubu, Bayo Onanuga has rebuked Peter Obi following his comments on the proposed purchase of a new presidential aircraft.
The house of representatives committee on national security and intelligence recently told the federal government to procure new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima.
The committee’s recommendation was enshrined in a report issued just after an investigation into the present condition of the aircraft in the presidential air fleet.
But on Monday, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, condemned the proposal, saying it is an indication of the disconnect between the government and the people.
Obi stated that the proposal is unacceptable, stressing that there is need for a more compassionate use of resources and prioritising citizens’ welfare.
However, whilst speaking with Punch, Mr Onanuga said the purchase of another aircraft is a necessity.
Onanuga explained that the proposal is a “basic thing any sane government will do” because it cannot play with the president’s welfare.
“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 (former President) 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.”