Former Cross River Governor Donald Duke criticized President Bola Tinubu for purchasing a new presidential jet and yacht amidst Nigeria's severe economic crisis. Duke called this a failure of leadership, urging the President to prioritize the welfare of citizens and address pressing issues, including currency management and corruption.
Former Cross River Governor Donald Duke has expressed strong disapproval of President Bola Tinubu's recent acquisitions, which include a new presidential jet and a yacht, arguing that these purchases represent a significant failure in leadership at a time when many Nigerians are facing dire economic challenges.
Speaking on Channels Television's Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, Duke emphasized that there is no dignity in flaunting wealth while citizens are struggling. He remarked, “If I were the head of a household and my family faced hardships, I would see that as a personal failure. A leader should prioritize the well-being of their people, just as they would their family.”
Duke highlighted that the lavish lifestyle of leadership, such as purchasing luxury items, is inappropriate when many families are going without necessities. He referenced the recent nationwide protests against bad governance, stating that these demonstrations reflect public dissatisfaction with the government's performance.
He stated, “Protests are a signal from the public expressing their discontent. It’s a wake-up call for leaders to listen and address the concerns of their citizens.” Duke urged Tinubu to reassess his policies, particularly the decision to float the national currency, which he described as poorly executed.
According to Duke, a major factor putting pressure on the Nigerian currency is the importation of fuel, exacerbated by corruption in the sector. He called for the President to take responsibility for security issues, implement judicial reforms, and develop solutions that address Nigeria's challenges using local insights rather than relying solely on international frameworks.
