Senate President Akpabio Denies Claims of Approving New Presidential Jets

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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has categorically denied allegations that the National Assembly has approved the purchase of new presidential jets for President Bola Tinubu. Speaking at the Red Chamber on Thursday, Akpabio clarified that no such request has been made to the Senate, and any claims suggesting otherwise are unfounded.


Addressing rumors circulating on social media, Akpabio emphasized that the National Assembly would not yield to blackmail or misinformation. He asserted that the Senate's decisions would always prioritize the welfare of the Nigerian people and the functional needs of the presidency. "We care about the President and we care about the Nigerian people. We will approve things that will benefit the Nigerian people," Akpabio stated.

Akpabio's comments come in the wake of media reports that he allegedly supported the procurement of new jets for the President. These reports gained traction after President Tinubu flew to South Africa on a private jet, sparking discussions about the state of the presidential fleet. The Senate President reiterated that these stories were baseless, and no official correspondence regarding new jets had been received by the Senate.


Akpabio highlighted the Senate's responsibility to address issues that impact national governance and the safety of its officials. He cited historical instances where defective aircraft led to the deaths of high-ranking officials in other countries, underscoring the importance of maintaining the presidential fleet. However, he reassured that any future request for new jets would be thoroughly scrutinized and debated by the National Assembly. "The Senate is very responsible. The National Assembly is very responsible. We will look into issues that will benefit the governance of the country," he affirmed.


Supporting Akpabio’s stance, Senate Leader Bamidele confirmed that no discussion or request regarding new presidential jets had taken place in the Senate. He urged the public to disregard the propaganda and assured that any such decision would involve a comprehensive debate among all 469 elected representatives. "There is no such request. If the request comes, it’s for 469 elected representatives of the Nigerian people to discuss and take a position," Bamidele stated.


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