The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticized the proposed demolition of approximately “200 houses” in the Nuwalege community of Abuja to facilitate the expansion of the presidential fleet.
In a post on his X account on Thursday, Obi said he was shocked and at the same time pained by the development. He described it as “an inconsiderate project at this critical time when the country is going through untold hardship.”
“I am shocked by the recent report of the planned demolition of about 200 houses in the Nuwalege community in Abuja, to make way for the Presidential Fleet.
“I am again pained that we are embarking on such an inconsiderate project at this critical time when the country is going through untold hardship,” he said.
The former governor of Anambra State emphasized that the current focus of leaders should be on phasing out or minimizing the Presidential Fleet to reduce costs. According to him, the priority should be allocating resources to essential projects that benefit the people, rather than demolishing homes.
Obi suggested that the government should explore avenues to decrease or eliminate expenses instead of expanding the presidential fleet.
“We cannot continue to encourage those who have kept us suffering to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle far beyond our legitimate means. A democratically elected people-oriented government must always care for the people, above itself,” the Labour Party chieftain said.
“I, therefore, advise that we have a rethink, and most importantly, ensure that our fellow Nigerians are not rendered homeless for the sake of an unproductive presidential fleet.
“No nation grows or develops by subjecting the people to avoidable inconveniences to accommodate the luxurious excesses of its rulers,” he said.