Rescue The Vulnerable Initiative, an NGO, has expressed concern over the insensitivity of Nigerian lawmakers to purchase exotic cars at a staggering cost of N160 million per legislator.
The leader of the group, Faduri Joseph, told newsmen in Abuja on Friday that the lawmakers’ decision came at a time when the nation’s economy was in a state of free fall, leaving countless civil servants and workers struggling to provide for their families due to meager earnings.
He said skyrocketing food prices and the abrupt removal of fuel subsidies without adequate preparation has exacerbated the hardship.
Mr Joseph said: “It’s shameful that our lawmakers, during one of the worst economic downturns in the history of Nigeria, could utilise borrowed funds to acquire luxury vehicles for themselves.”
He said this is occurring at a time when the abrupt subsidy removal had thrown the nation into turmoil, making it difficult for an average Nigerian to afford three square meals a day.
He added that it came at a time when the cost of education was driving many students out of school.
He expressed concern over the state of infrastructure, particularly the deplorable road network, adding that it is a pressing concern and the unemployment rate is steadily rising.
The group leader said it was the responsibility of political leaders to set an example for the nation.
He described the situation as reckless, stressing that it is disgraceful that leaders who were supposed to serve the nation could display such lack of concern for the struggles of ordinary citizens.
He further expressed disappointment that even lawmakers affiliated with the Labour Party, were among those willing to accept the borrowed luxury cars without any qualms.
NAN
