Abdulkareem Lawan, Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, has called on the Federal Government to prioritize safety by purchasing a new aircraft for Vice President Kashim Shettima.
His appeal stems from growing concerns over the recurring issues with the vice presidential aircraft, which Shettima frequently uses for official engagements, including representing President Bola Tinubu on international trips.
The appeal followed an incident involving Vice President Shettima’s plane during a stopover at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, United States. On that occasion, the plane sustained damage due to a foreign object. As a result of this incident, Shettima had to cancel his planned trip to the Commonwealth Summit in Samoa, which he was scheduled to attend on behalf of the president.
Lawan expressed deep concern for the safety of Shettima and the crew who regularly accompany him on these official flights. He noted that the aging aircraft poses a risk to their lives, particularly due to its recent record of mechanical issues.
“The statement reads, “I want to sympathise with the Nigerian Government, especially the office of the Vice President, his crew and staff over the unfortunate incident at JFK Airport in New York, U.S.A.
“I also express my gratitude to Allah (God) for saving the precious life of our dear Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima and those on board the ill-fated VP’s plane, even as I urge the Nigerian government to demand a thorough and timely investigation from the United States government over the incident that affected Vice President Kashim Shettima’s plane at one of the most secure spots in the World.
“The life of the Vice President and that of his crew/officials stand at risk while using the old and faulty presidential aircraft. Therefore, there is an urgent need to acquire a new aircraft for Senator Kashim Shettima so as to avoid these recurrences of air mishaps.”
