Former lawmaker Shehu Sani has expressed serious concerns following an incident involving Vice President Kashim Shettima’s plane, which was reportedly struck by a foreign object at JFK Airport in New York. This incident has raised alarms about the safety and security protocols in place for high-profile officials.
Sani’s reaction comes in light of the Vice President’s cancelled trip to Samoa for the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Summit due to the damage caused to the cockpit window of his aircraft. The situation has prompted discussions about the implications of such incidents, particularly in one of the world’s most secure aviation environments.
In his tweet, Sani stated, “The incident at the JFK Airport in New York where a ‘foreign object’ was reported to have hit and damaged the cockpit window of the VP Shettima plane must be treated seriously. Nigeria must demand a thorough investigation and explanation from the US. Such incident in one of the most tightly secured Aviation spots in the World is unprecedented. We thank The Almighty for the life of the VP and other crew and staff.”
The Vice President was scheduled to represent Nigeria at a significant international summit, making this occurrence even more concerning. The Nigerian presidency has since approved a ministerial delegation to take his place while repairs on the aircraft are underway.
Sani’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among citizens who are increasingly aware of security issues affecting their leaders. As Nigeria navigates its role on the global stage, ensuring the safety of its officials is paramount. His call for a thorough investigation emphasizes the need for vigilance and accountability, especially when it comes to matters of national importance.