Former Kogi West Senator, Dino Melaye, has criticized the use of a heavily armored presidential limousine popularly known as “The Beast,” arguing that it represents a break from long-standing tradition and raises questions about government spending.
Melaye made the comments during an interview on Mic On Podcast hosted by Seun Akinbaloye, where he discussed what he described as changing patterns in presidential protocol and expenditure in Nigeria.
The former lawmaker claimed that successive Nigerian leaders, from the early years of independence to recent administrations, traditionally relied on Mercedes-Benz S-Class vehicles for official duties, rather than the high-end armored vehicle currently in use.
“Since Tafawa Balewa, Aguiyi Ironsi, Azikiwe, down the line to Muhammadu Buhari all our presidents, heads of States used Mercedes Benz S Class as their official car. This is the first time a president is coming and using a Beast. The same type being used by the American president costing over 9 times what S-Class should have cost us,” Melaye said.
He argued that the shift to the armored limousine signals a significant change in how presidential security and mobility are handled, and questioned whether the financial implications are justified given Nigeria’s current economic challenges.
Melaye suggested that the cost difference between the traditionally used vehicle and the armored “Beast” raises broader concerns about fiscal priorities and public accountability.
His remarks have since generated reactions across political and social circles, with some Nigerians debating whether enhanced security for the president warrants such expenditure, while others echoed concerns about government spending and symbolism….See More
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