Former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke has sharply criticized President Bola Tinubu for purchasing a new presidential jet and yacht while many Nigerians are struggling with economic hardship. Duke expressed his concerns during an appearance on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, a program aired on Channels Television.
Duke described these purchases as a “failure of leadership,” arguing that it reflects poorly on Tinubu’s ability to address the nation’s economic challenges. He emphasized that true leadership should prioritize the well-being of the people, especially in times of crisis.
Duke stated, “There is no glamour in saying your people are going through hard times. It’s a failure of your leadership. If I’m the head of a family, I want my family to have everything. I don’t want life to be difficult for them. If life is difficult, then I feel I’ve failed to provide for them or do the things I ought to have done.”
He urged Tinubu to view the Nigerian nation as a family, suggesting that the same standards applied to his personal family should be applied to the nation. “Buying a new aircraft or yacht or living large is a failure. You can’t have kids who are hungry and you are living lavishly, going to parties and wearing the biggest agbada,” Duke added.
Duke also commented on the recent #EndBadGovernance protests, which he sees as a reflection of widespread dissatisfaction with the current administration. He likened the protests to children expressing discontent with their parents, urging Tinubu to reconsider his policies and approach.
Duke criticized the policy of floating the Nigerian currency, describing it as a misstep that has exacerbated economic issues. He pointed out that the high cost of fuel importation, driven by corruption, is a significant burden on the economy.
In his recommendations, Duke called for a reassessment of current policies, emphasizing the need for accountability among security agencies, judicial reforms, and the adoption of local solutions to economic problems rather than relying on international financial systems.