Former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke, in a recent interview on Channels TV’s “Inside Sources” program, criticized President Bola Tinubu for purchasing new jets amidst Nigeria’s economic struggles.
Speaking with former presidential aide Laolu Akande, Duke highlighted a perceived disconnect between the President’s actions and the current economic hardships faced by many Nigerians.
Duke described the purchase of luxury items such as new aircraft as a significant failure in leadership. He argued that while acknowledging the difficulties faced by the populace, lavish expenditures undermine the administration’s credibility.
“It’s not a glamorous thing to say your people are going through hard times,” Duke remarked. “If I’m the head of a family, I want my family to have the best of everything. I don’t want life to be difficult for them.”
He urged President Tinubu to view Nigeria as his family, emphasizing that what benefits the nation should align with what benefits a family.
Duke expressed that true leadership involves addressing the fundamental needs of citizens, such as healthcare, infrastructure, and security, rather than indulging in luxury.
“Buying a new aircraft or yacht or whatever is a failure because you can’t have people who are hungry while you are living lavish,” Duke added.
