Stop Wasting Taxpayers’ Money on Luxury Cars, Jets,.Utomi Counsels Public Servants 

Political economist, Prof. Pat Utomi has advised Nigerian public servants to refrain from spending public funds on luxury items such as high-end vehicles and presidential jets, calling the practice unjust in a country facing widespread poverty.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Hard Copy, Utomi urged government officials to set an example of modesty and fiscal responsibility by opting for more economical alternatives.

“If you’re using public money, please don’t use it to buy a Land Cruiser,” he said, suggesting Toyota Corollas as suitable options for official use.

He criticised the procurement of new presidential jets, referencing former South African President Thabo Mbeki, who reportedly flew in business class without fanfare.

Utomi also drew comparisons with Egypt, noting that despite significant infrastructural achievements, many of its leaders rely on modest vehicles like Peugeot 504s and Toyota Corollas.

The former presidential candidate questioned the need for a large presidential fleet in Nigeria, describing it as “unjustifiable” when millions of citizens struggle to afford basic necessities.

Utomi warned that the spending habits of the political elite risk sending the wrong message to younger generations, undermining the cultural and ethical foundations necessary for national development.

“The elites…their behaviour sets the tone, and culture drives progress. If they continue like this, history may treat them with such contempt it would have been better for them not to have held the positions they did,” he added.