If you still think our lawmakers are the epitome of sensibility, well, something’s amiss. The controversy surrounding the grand plans of our federal lawmakers to snag luxury vehicles continues, with many Nigerians shaking their heads in disbelief.
But don’t worry; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Services, Sunday Karimi, has an explanation that might leave you in stitches. Apparently, our honourable senators and representatives are opting for foreign-made SUVs like Land Cruisers and Prados because they’re all about “quality and durability.” Who needs locally made vehicles, right?
Karimi, the representative from Kogi West Senatorial District, gave this gem of an explanation during a live appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today program. When asked why they aren’t supporting Nigerian-made cars, he responded, “Today, we decided for Toyota because Toyota has a name and a longstanding name for quality and durability… As our local manufacturing companies develop, we are going to patronize them.”
But don’t laugh just yet, because according to Karimi, our federal lawmakers desperately need these vehicles for their “oversights” and to gallivant all over their constituencies. And as for the choice of foreign-made cars, he reasoned, “In future, as Nigerian manufacturing sector develops, we will (patronize them).”
Can you believe the audacity? They mocked Nigerian-made cars, the very products they should be championing, and yet they are the ones you cast your votes for! Dear Nigerians, it’s safe to say you’ve been scammed.
