Former Minister of Education, Obiageli Ezekwesili, has sharply criticized the Federal Government for acquiring a new presidential jet amidst widespread hunger and poverty in the country.
Ezekwesili expressed her concerns during an interview on Channels TV’s “Politics Today,” where she accused the presidency and the National Assembly of undermining the intelligence of Nigerians.
“The political class has decided that they are the bandits against Nigeria,” Ezekwesili stated emphatically.
“I do not see how it is feasible that the topmost priority of a government that has this level of hunger and poverty would be the purchase of a befitting aircraft for the president.”
Ezekwesili’s comments reflect a growing frustration among Nigerians over what many perceive as the government’s misplaced priorities in the face of severe economic challenges.
She pointed out that while she once served as a minister in a previous administration, her financial records are transparent, and she refrained from collecting allowances commonly given to ministers.
“Yes, I have served the nation before, but I wasn’t part of a government where women are screaming ‘Ebi mkpawa, ebi mkpawa’,” Ezekwesili added, referencing a popular lament in a Yoruba dialect that translates to “we are dying of hunger.”
Her remarks have sparked widespread debate, with many citizens echoing her sentiments and questioning the rationale behind such an acquisition during these challenging times.