The Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government on Wednesday confirmed that it purchased vehicles worth N1.4 billion to help Niger Republic tackle insecurity.
The Minister of Finance, Budget, and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed while confirming this explained that providing intervention to the neighboring Niger Republic is not new and it is the prerogative of President Muhammadu Buhari who approved the purchase.
She said President Buhari, whose actions she cannot question, has the right to make his own assessment of situations and give directives accordingly.
According to her, the financial support, which is primarily for the purpose of enhancing capacity to protect their territory, based on a request by the Nigerien Government, is also in the best interest of the country.
The minister, who was speaking after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by the President, responded to questions regarding documents released on social media which showed that the president approved the release of the funds on February 22, 2022, for the Niger Republic.
Meanwhile, this revelation has angered Nigerians who have taken to social media to express their anger.
See some of the reactions as seen on Twitter below:
Remi Sonaiya tweeted: “All these expenses in favour of #NigerRepublic! And the recent reminder of how President @MBuhari allegedly voted against Nigeria and in support of Niger‘s candidate as OAU Secretary-General in 1985. The link between our president and Niger is worthy of an MA thesis research.”
Adekunle Sulaimon tweeted: “N1.4billion for the purchase of 10 Land Cruiser V8 vehicles to fight insecurity in Niger Republic, the same thing Nigeria is plagued with. ASUU should just continue their strike for extra 3years until their demands are met. I can authoritatively confirm that there’s money.”
Another tweep, Afam Deluxo wrote: “Nigerians aren’t paying attention enough. Niger republic was no where to be found prior 2015 election. Between 2015 & 2022, they have become the 4th fastest growing African economies, and have also been projected to be numero uno by 2023. Are you seeing what I am seeing?”
Mide Adigun tweeted: “ASUU is on strike but the demonic APC Government can spend 1.4Billion Naira on 10 luxury SUVs for Niger republic? Make it make sense.”
Ovie tweeted: “President Buhari has done more for Niger Republic than Nigeria.”
Malik wrote: “ASUU dey strike since February, Buhari dey do sugar daddy for Niger Republic.”
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