Borno speaker asks FG to buy new aircraft for Shettima, says his life is in danger

The Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, has asked Federal Government to acquire a new aircraft for Nigeria’s Vice-President, Kashim Shettima, saying his life is at risk due to the “faulty” presidential aircraft he travels with.

Shettima had to cancel his trip to the Commonwealth Summit in Samoa following an incident at an airport in New York, United States.

The Presidency confirmed that a “foreign object” hit his plane during a stopover at JFK Airport in New York.

Some parts of the aircraft, including the windscreen of the cockpit, were damaged in the incident.

Earlier this year, the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence recommended the purchase of new aircraft for both the President and Vice President.

However, only the President’s aircraft was replaced, leaving Shettima dependent on the older, malfunction-prone plane.

In a statement issued from Maiduguri, Speaker Lawan expressed relief that no harm came to Shettima or his team during the recent incident.

He called for a “thorough and timely investigation” from the U.S. government regarding the mishap at JFK Airport, highlighting the potential security concerns even at one of the world’s most secure airports.

“The life of the Vice President and his team remains at risk with the continued use of an unreliable aircraft. I urge the Federal Government to prioritize acquiring a new plane for Vice President Shettima to prevent further incidents,” Lawan stated.

He extended sympathy to the Nigerian government and reiterated gratitude to Allah for safeguarding Shettima and his crew in the incident.

“I also express my gratitude to Allah (God) for saving the precious life of our dear Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima and those on board the ill- fated VP’s plane, even as I urge the Nigerian government to demand a thorough and timely investigation from the United States government over the incident that affected Vice President Kashim Shettima’s plane at one of the most secure spots in the World.