“Does Peter Obi Want the President Dead?” — Onanuga Challenges Obi Over Comments on Proposed Presidential Aircraft Purchase

Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on information and strategy to President Bola Tinubu, has criticized Peter Obi for his recent remarks concerning the proposed acquisition of a new presidential aircraft.

The house of representatives committee on national security and intelligence has recommended that the federal government purchase new aircraft for President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima. This recommendation follows an investigation into the current state of the presidential air fleet.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, expressed his disapproval of this proposal on Monday. Obi argued that the plan underscores a disconnect between the government and its citizens, advocating instead for a more compassionate and resource-efficient approach that prioritizes the welfare of the populace.

In response, Onanuga defended the necessity of acquiring a new aircraft, calling it a “basic thing any sane government will do” to ensure the president’s safety and well-being. He sharply questioned Obi’s intentions, asking, “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 further noted that the current aircraft in use was acquired during former President Obasanjo’s tenure, over 20 years ago, and is reportedly a small plane. He highlighted that the aircraft recently encountered issues while on a trip to Saudi Arabia, forcing President Tinubu to continue his journey to the UK on a commercial airline. He stressed that even the aircraft’s managers have indicated the need for a replacement.