The safety of Nigeria’s Vice-President, Kashim Shettima, is reportedly at risk, according to Borno State House of Assembly Speaker Abdulkarim Lawan.
Lawan’s alarming statement follows a concerning incident involving Shettima’s aircraft during a recent trip to the United States.
The Vice-President was scheduled to attend the Commonwealth Summit in Samoa when a “foreign object” struck his aircraft during a stopover at JFK Airport in New York.
This unfortunate incident damaged critical components of the aircraft, including the cockpit windscreen.
Due to the extent of the damage, Shettima had to cancel his trip, prompting renewed calls for the Nigerian government to take immediate action.
In a press statement released on Sunday, October 27, from Maiduguri, Speaker Lawan expressed relief that Shettima and his team were unharmed.
However, he stressed that the government must urgently address the safety concerns regarding the aging and “faulty” presidential jet.
“I want to sympathize with the Nigerian Government, especially the office of the Vice-President, his crew, and staff over the unfortunate incident at JFK Airport,” Lawan stated.
The incident has raised eyebrows about the current state of Nigeria’s presidential aircraft.
Critics have long highlighted the need for a reliable and safe mode of transportation for high-ranking officials.
Lawan emphasised the risks associated with continuing to use the aging aircraft.
“The life of the Vice-President, and that of his crew/officials, stands at risk while using the old and faulty presidential aircraft,” he warned.
Lawan called for immediate government action, demanding the acquisition of a new aircraft.
“There is an urgent need to acquire a new aircraft to avoid a recurrence of air mishaps,” he said.
The Vice-President’s office has yet to publicly comment on the incident.
However, this situation is not isolated.
Concerns about the safety of government officials during air travel have been raised multiple times in the past.
In 2021, there were reports of engine failure in the presidential jet carrying then-President Muhammadu Buhari, leading to increased scrutiny of the government’s transportation infrastructure.
Nigerians have been vocal about their concerns regarding government spending on luxury items while public infrastructure remains in dire need of investment.
Calls for improved air travel safety for government officials reflect broader issues of governance in Nigeria.
Many citizens question the prioritization of funds for essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
“Why do our leaders travel in faulty planes when we have pressing issues at home?” asked one concerned citizen on social media.
The incident at JFK Airport has also sparked discussions about the quality of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Industry experts have criticized the lack of investment in modern aircraft and maintenance programs for government jets.
As the situation unfolds, Lawan’s comments underscore a critical issue facing the Nigerian government: the need for reliable and safe air travel for its leaders.
Lawan’s statement serves as a reminder of the challenges Nigeria faces in providing adequate services and infrastructure for its officials.
With increasing concerns about air travel safety, the call for a new aircraft for the Vice-President may lead to wider discussions about investment in the nation’s aviation infrastructure.
“We must prioritize the safety of our leaders,” Lawan emphasized.
“This is essential for maintaining public confidence in our government.”