Former Minister Oby Ezekwesili Criticizes Presidency Over Purchase of New Presidential Jet

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Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has sharply criticized the Nigerian Presidency following the recent purchase of a new Presidential jet. In a statement posted on social media, Ezekwesili condemned the move as an "obscene indulgence," warning that such actions could provoke a backlash from citizens struggling with poverty.

Ezekwesili highlighted the irony of a government, burdened with significant national debt, opting to spend scarce public funds on luxury items. She emphasized that this kind of fiscal irresponsibility is unsustainable and warned that something will inevitably give.

“No argument justifies the purchase of a 16-year-old Airbus plane by the @NGRPresident @officialABAT for his indulgence,” Ezekwesili wrote. “Continue with your obscene indulgence until the day your hungry citizens can no longer bear to sleep on their empty stomachs.”

She criticized political and public officials for enjoying luxuries while asking the poor to "sacrifice for the future." Ezekwesili warned that the ongoing class disparity and insensitivity to the plight of ordinary Nigerians could lead to serious consequences, including increased civil unrest.

Ezekwesili's remarks come as Nigerians continue to grapple with economic hardships, and her comments have sparked widespread discussion about government spending priorities. She recalled a similar controversy from 2013 when she called out lawmakers for their excessive salaries and lack of accountability, a debate that has yet to be resolved.

As the debate over government spending continues, Ezekwesili’s critique underscores growing frustration among Nigerians over what many see as mismanagement of public funds during a time of economic crisis.