Stella Oduah, Aviation ministertell
As the crisis rocking the Ministry of Aviation over the purchase of two bullet proof cars for a whopping N255 million continues, a federal lawmaker, Monsuru Alao Owolabi, has said no amount of shielding from the presidency can deter the National Assembly from probing embattled Minister, Stella Oduah.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) had cried out on Monday, accusing the Federal Government of trying to shield Oduah from prosecution.
Speaking with newsmen on Tuesday, Owolabi, who represents Lagos Mainland in the House of Representatives, also faulted the claim by the Minister that the cars became necessary due to threats to her life by some individuals who are opposed to the transformation of the aviation sector being carried out by her.
He said former Director- General of NAFDAC, Dora Akunyili, faced several death threats and was even shot by some elements opposed to her fight against illegal drugs, yet never purchased bulletproof cars for herself.
"This is a serious matter. How can you take delivery of bulletproof cars for N255m in a country people can barely afford three square meals per day?. Women are known for their prudence, moderateness and for being effective managers. How can you purchase two armoured cars for N255 million with taxpayers' money?. That is ridiculous because Nigeria is not in wartime. Who is after her life? Professor Dora Akunyili did more than her in NAFDAC; she was even shot by her assailants, yet, she never purchased any bulletproof car.
"It is a big slap on the face of the nation. If the Presidency wants to shield her, let them go ahead. But I want to assure you that we will pursue the matter to a logical conclusion and ensure that the Minister is probed for the sake of justice, transparency and accountability" he said.
