ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Senate on Thursday, refuted claims that it approved the purchase of a new presidential jet for President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio clarified that no such request was before the Senate, labeling the reports as “anticipatory blackmail” and “propaganda” aimed at destabilising the parliament.
He said, “We have never approved purchase of presidential jet. There is no such request before us now. It is mere anticipatory blackmail”.
Akpabio’s statement corroborated observations by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who noted that the Senate did not give backing for the procurement of a new presidential aircraft.
The Senate President emphasized that there is no truth to the claims, which he attributed to “fifth columnists” seeking to undermine the government.
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The denial comes after online news outlets reported that the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence had recommended the purchase of new aircraft for the Presidential Air Fleet (PAF).
The reported recommendation was allegedly made following a hearing on the status and airworthiness of aircraft in the PAF.
However, Akpabio dismissed the reports as false, urging patience and assuring that the government will bring prosperity to Nigerians.
He reiterated that the Senate’s focus is on addressing the country’s pressing issues, including economic development and security, rather than indulging in lavish expenditures.
The Senate President’s clarification puts to rest speculations and rumors surrounding the alleged purchase of a new presidential jet, which had sparked public debate and criticism.
“I want to dispel the rumour that you are hearing that the Senate President said he will buy a new plane for the President and his Vice, irrespective of the fact that Nigerians are hungry or whatever.
“I never said that. I was actually in Zanzibar, Tanzania, It is the handiwork of propagandists and fifth columnists, who never see anything good in what we are doing.
Be rest assured, pray for the government, have patience, and be assured that the combination of Tinubu and Shettima will bring wealth and prosperity to all”, Akpabio was quoted to have said.