A civil society organisation, the Centre for Good Governance and Probity, has raised alarms over reports that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been utilizing a chartered plane for official engagements rather than the presidential aircraft, highlighting potential security risks.
In a statement released yesterday and signed by its National Coordinator, Gabriel Uwosu, the group criticized the practice, describing it as a disgrace to Nigeria’s image on the global stage.
The organisation emphasized the security implications of the president’s lack of an official aircraft, expressing worry over compromised safety protocols.
“While we understand the need for flexibility and security considerations, the use of a chartered plane raises significant questions about national security and the integrity of the presidency,” Uwosu stated.
The group elaborated on the importance of the presidential aircraft, noting that it is a symbol of the Nigerian state and is equipped with advanced security features designed to protect the head of state.
“Its use is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of the president during both domestic and international travel.
“By relying on a chartered plane, there are concerns that critical security protocols and procedures may be compromised, potentially leaving the president vulnerable and exposing sensitive information about his movements and activities,” the statement added.
The Centre also pointed out that the optics of the president not using the official state aircraft send the wrong message to both citizens and the international community about the seriousness of the office.
They argued that such practices undermine the dignity and perceived importance of the presidential office.
“We call on those concerned to take immediate action to rectify the situation.
“Nigerians deserve to have confidence that their president is being protected with the utmost care and that the dignity of the office is being upheld,” the statement concluded.
