This archive report was first published on 12 January 2020.
January 9, 2020, marked a day of controversy in Nigeria as President Muhammadu Buhari's daughter, Hanan, used the nation's presidential jets for a private function in Bauchi State.
According to reports, Hanan was invited by the Emir of Bauchi, Rilwanu Adamu, as a special guest to a private 'durbar' event. The event, which took place on January 9, was an opportunity for Hanan to showcase her photography skills, capturing traditional ceremonies, Bauchi architecture, and other cultural sites in the state.
However, when pictures of Hanan disembarking from the plane surfaced online, Nigerians reacted sharply, questioning the use of the presidential jets for a private function. The 2020 budget of N8.5bn for the presidential jets was also brought into question.
Responding to the criticisms, the presidency stated that members of President Buhari's family have the right to use the presidential jets. However, this move was disputed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who called on the head of state to apologize to Nigerians.
‘The President, First Lady, Vice-President, Senate President, Speaker, Chief Justice of Nigeria, former presidents and presidential delegations are only allowed to use the presidential jet', according to Sahara Reporters.
