Obi blasts alleged distribution of luxury vehicles to Tinubu’s mobilisation coordinators

By James Ike

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has condemned the alleged distribution of luxury vehicles to state coordinators of a political mobilisation group reportedly linked to the Federal Government.

In a statement issued Thursday, Obi described the development as “profound insensitivity” to the harsh economic conditions confronting millions of Nigerians.

His reaction followed reports that President Bola Tinubu handed over Toyota Land Cruiser SUVs, Toyota Hilux trucks and Hummer buses to officials of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors ahead of the 2027 polls.

In a post on his X handle titled “Distribution of Campaign Vehicles: Profound Insensitivity and Abuse of Trust,” Obi criticised the reported gesture as a glaring example of misplaced priorities at a time of widespread hunger, joblessness and insecurity.

“At a time when Nigerians are struggling with hunger, unemployment, and insecurity, the decision of any government to allocate limited public resources for distributing luxury vehicles is not only insensitive but represents a serious moral failure,” he said.

Obi insisted that governance should be centred on easing the suffering of citizens, not projecting political strength through expensive vehicles. “While ordinary Nigerians are grappling with poverty and hopelessness, those in leadership positions continue to flaunt wealth by driving brand-new Land Cruisers, Hiluxes and Hummers,” he lamented.

He added that such actions “treat the suffering of the people as mere background for political theatrics,” stressing that the alleged distribution was unacceptable.

According to him, leaders should instead prioritise food security, healthcare access, job creation and community safety. “Leadership, especially in these challenging times, should focus on providing food for the hungry, ensuring access to healthcare for the sick, restoring hope for millions of unemployed youth, and securing our communities—not parading luxury vehicles or campaigning for votes.”

Obi further described the alleged move as a breach of public trust. “This is not governance. It reflects profound insensitivity and an abuse of public trust disguised as political strategy,” he said.

He lamented that many families are struggling with school fees, maternal health issues and rising insecurity, yet resources are reportedly being diverted to political mobilisation. “This tragic misplacement of priorities is unacceptable,” he added.