By DAYO ADESULU
No Approval Sought for Jet Purchase—Senator Abaribe
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, representing Abia South Senatorial District, has denied that the National Assembly approved the controversial purchase of a new presidential jet. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Abaribe stated, “Nobody, quote me, nobody brought anything to the National Assembly to say please approve this for the purchase of a new plane.”
This revelation challenges the narrative that lawmakers were complicit in the decision, as criticism continues to mount against the presidency for the jet acquisition.
Presidency Faces Backlash Over Jet
The Airbus A330, unveiled in August as part of President Bola Tinubu’s fleet, drew widespread criticism from Nigerians. Many argued that the purchase symbolized misplaced priorities, given the severe economic challenges facing citizens.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga defended the acquisition, claiming it was a “refurbished jet” rather than a new one. However, this explanation failed to quell public discontent.
National Assembly Criticized for Alleged Compliance
Members of the National Assembly were also targeted, with critics accusing them of acting as a rubber stamp for the presidency’s decisions. Senator Abaribe refuted these claims, stressing that the legislature was not consulted.
Accountability Concerns Raised
Abaribe highlighted that bypassing the National Assembly undermines its role as a check on the executive branch. “The failure of the Presidency to approach the National Assembly with a request means part of our job to check the executive is not being efficiently carried out,” he said.
Lawmakers Struggle with Public Perception
The lawmaker expressed concern over the growing perception that legislators are overly compliant with executive decisions. He attributed this to repeated clashes with the presidency in the past, which, according to him, yielded limited public benefit, leading lawmakers to seek greater cooperation with the executive.
Conclusion
The controversy over the jet purchase underscores ongoing tensions between the Nigerian public, the presidency, and the National Assembly regarding fiscal priorities and governance accountability.
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