Published On September 8, 2024 In Benue, Nigeria
By Inyima Nicholas Sunday, A Writer | Website: INTERNETISGOOD
The Nigerian presidency has publicly disowned a yacht spotted in St. Tropez, France, that was seen flying the Nigerian flag. The sighting sparked a wave of speculation on social media, with many claiming the yacht was owned by the Nigerian government or linked to President Bola Tinubu.On September 7, 2024, a video showcasing the yacht went viral, prompting an official response from the presidency. Otega Ogra, the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Digital and New Media, took to X (formerly Twitter) to clarify the situation. He emphasized that the yacht in question is privately owned and has no affiliation with the Nigerian government or its officials.
Clarification from the Presidency
In his statement, Ogra outlined several key points to dispel the rumors surrounding the yacht:
- Ownership: Ogra stated that the 42-meter Benetti yacht has been privately owned for approximately five years since its construction. He stressed that it is not connected to the Nigerian government, the president, or the armed forces.
- Flag Misrepresentation: He pointed out that the official Nigerian flag is a simple Green-White-Green design without any additional symbols or a coat of arms. The flags used by the president or armed forces do not contain a coat of arms in the center, making the flag on the yacht a clear deviation from the official representation of Nigeria.
- Common Practice: Ogra noted that it is not unusual for luxury yachts to display the flag of their owner’s country alongside the flag of the country in which they are registered. This practice can sometimes lead to misunderstandings about ownership and affiliation.
Public Reaction
The video and subsequent claims about the yacht generated significant public interest and debate. Social media users expressed a mix of skepticism and curiosity regarding the yacht’s ownership, with many calling for clarity from the government. The presidency’s swift response aimed to mitigate the spread of misinformation and clarify the yacht’s status.
Conclusion
The presidency’s disowning of the yacht reflects a broader concern about the potential for misinformation to influence public perception. By addressing the issue directly, the administration seeks to maintain transparency and uphold the integrity of the Nigerian flag and its representation.As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the public will respond to the clarification provided by the presidency. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding national symbols and the importance of accurate information in the digital age.