Shettima Misuses Nigerian Taxpayer’s Money, Flies Official Jet to Attend Wedding

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Saturday attended the traditional marriage ceremony of Toluwatimi Esther and Ayodeji Kenny, children of Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji and Dr. Oluranti Akinyemi’s families, using an official aircraft funded by taxpayers.

Shettima in a post on X noted that he was representing President Bola Tinubu at the event. However, the use of an official aircraft for a private function is a blatant misuse of public resources.

The event, held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, brought together prominent dignitaries, including governors, senators, and former political leaders.

Upon landing at the Ibadan Airport, Vice President Shettima was received by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State; Governor Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State; Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; and several others.

In a post on X Shettima wrote: “Today, I had the pleasure of arriving in Ibadan to attend the traditional marriage ceremony of Toluwatimi Esther and Ayodeji Kenny… The beautiful ceremony united the families of H.E. @biodunaoyebanji & H.E. Dr. (Mrs.) Olayemi Jumoke Oyebanji and Dr. Oluranti Akinyemi & Dr. (Mrs.) Olukemi Akinyemi in a joyous celebration of love, unity, and cultural heritage.”

This act has sparked debate among Nigerians, with many questioning the ethics of deploying state resources for personal engagements.

Many Nigerians believe it underscores a larger issue of government officials prioritising personal or ceremonial commitments over their constitutional duties while burdening taxpayers.

Shettima’s attendance, alongside a fleet of other public office holders shows the need for accountability in the use of state resources.

Despite the Tinubu’s administration asking Nigerians to “learn to manage” amid prevailing economic hardship characterised by unprecedented inflation and a rising cost of living under their watch.

This is coming months after Tinubu procured a new presidential jet, despite Nigeria’s ongoing economic downturn. The use of an official aircraft funded by public funds for a personal engagement shows a stark contrast to their call for Nigerians to cope with the rising hardship.

It will be recalled that In August, Nigerians took to the streets in a 10-day series of demonstrations under the hashtag #EndBadGovernance, voicing opposition to Mr Tinubu’s economic measures, however the protest was met with heavy security manhandling by the government with several protesters facing treasonable charges.

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Oluwasegun Sanusi

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