President Tinubu Arrives In South Africa By Private Jet Amid Opposition Criticism

President Bola Tinubu alongside his entourage arrived in South Africa in two private jets on Tuesday -- amid opposition criticism -- to attend South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's inauguration.

The president was accompanied by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat and other government officials.

"They went in two private jets. Of course, you are aware that the presidential jets are no longer in good shape," a source said, Punch reported.

Tinubu left the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, on a Dassault Falcon 8X aircraft around 11.00 a.m. This news came just one day after Labour Party's leader Peter Obi said the federal government should avoid purchasing a new jet.

"At a time when our country is trending on the global media for facing its worst economic crisis, marked by high inflation, a falling currency, and widespread poverty, the government's plan to buy new presidential jets demonstrates extreme insensitivity to citizens' struggles," Obi wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

"With rising insecurity, poverty, hunger, and homelessness, this decision highlights the disconnect between the government and the people. It is unacceptable and demands a more compassionate use of resources, prioritizing citizens' welfare."

The presidency swiftly responded to Obi's posts on social media, calling them insensitive and wondering if he wanted to risk Tinubu's life by flying in faulty aircraft.

Special Adviser to the president on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, asked, "Does Peter Obi want the President dead? Is that his wish? Does he want him to continue moving around in a rickety plane and die like the VP of Malawi and Iran President? Let him tell us."

He further said that this was the basic thing any sane government would do for the president, noting that the country can't play with Tinubu's welfare.

"Why will any right-thinking person still want the President to move around in it? In this way, it is the National Assembly that officially recommended that new ones should be bought. Sometimes, Peter Obi opened his mouth to make unnecessary statements," he added.

Tinubu will be attending his South African counterpart's inauguration as he was re-elected for a second term.