Shettima’s Aide Responds to Obi’s Criticism of N15 Billion VP’s Residence Budget

In response to criticism from former Presidential candidate Peter Obi, Stanley Nkwocha, spokesperson for Vice-President Kashim Shettima, defended the proposed N15 billion budget for constructing a new residence for the Vice-President, dismissing claims of wastefulness.

Nkwocha clarified that the plan for the new residence was initiated and awarded during the administration of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, not by the current government. He accused Obi of attempting to tarnish President Bola Tinubu’s administration with “frail and futile” criticisms.

The spokesperson highlighted that the project, originally started in 2010 and funded by the Jonathan administration, was left abandoned for over a decade. The current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, recognizing the need to complete vital abandoned projects, decided to revive the construction, independent of the Vice-President’s influence.

Nkwocha emphasized the importance of distinguishing between addressing abandoned projects and initiating new ones. He argued that completing existing structures prevents wastefulness and serves the nation’s interest, countering Obi’s assertions.

The statement concluded by underlining the administration’s commitment to addressing abandoned projects nationwide as a priority, ensuring completion before embarking on new initiatives, with exceptions made for strategic or economically significant cases.