By Tunde Oso

As the Federal Government is racing to upturn the judgement obtained by Chinese firm, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment in a Paris court, which led to the seizure of Nigerian presidential jets, the Managing Director of UpdateAfrika Communications, Dr. Joseph Effiong has blamed Nigerian leaders for the embarrassment the nation is suffering in the comity of nations.

Effiong, the public analyst, who expressed disdain over the insensitivity of government to purchase a new jet amid public outcry and mass sufferings, added that government purchase of the aircraft against interest of Nigerians, highlights the extent of disregard for the  ideals of the rule of law by this present federal administration.

Effiong said he was not surprised by the action of the Chinese firm, now a slap on the face of the country, due to a contract breach perpetrated by Ogun state government.

“The seizure of the Presidential jets is a stark reminder of the deep-rooted abuse and disregard for legal obligations that exist within our country. It raises pertinent questions about the extent to which the Federal and  Ogun State governments fulfilled their obligations in their agreements with the Chinese firm.

“Additionally, their response to the UK court ruling regarding Nigerian-owned buildings in Liverpool prior to the French court action is also a cause for concern.

Effiong, who hoped that a lesson will be learnt from the occurrence still insisted for Federal Government to come out true to Nigerians on the secrecy around the purchase of the new jet and sales of previous, as well as other pressing issues.

“Only through transparency and accountability can we begin to rectify the numerous failures and embarrassments that have plagued our leadership.

“It is important too that the Federal Government provides Nigerians with a clear explanation of the events leading up to this international embarrassment and takes appropriate steps to prevent re-occurrence of such in future”, he said.