By Bilesanmi Abayomi
In a recent statement that sparked heated reactions across social media, Olawale Michael, a prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) youth leader from Kosofe, claimed that the ongoing hardship and economic difficulties in Nigeria were not the fault of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The comments were made on Sunday, October 20, 2024, in the signature comment section of the Kosofe Post platform.
Olawale defended Tinubu, stating that, “Humanity should come first in all ramifications but oppositions don’t think of humanity first. Peter Obi and Atiku would have faced similar challenges if they decided to change Nigeria’s story to a positive one, just like Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing now.”
His remarks, which came after months of escalating economic challenges and public dissatisfaction, stirred a flood of responses from citizens. Since 2015, the APC has been leading the country, yet many Nigerians feel the current administration has not provided the relief they desperately need.
Comrade Amos, one of the respondents, captured the public sentiment by referencing legendary musician Fela Kuti’s famous term “suffering and smiling” and added his own twist, stating, “Nigerians are suffering and adjusting.” He noted that despite the tough circumstances, Nigerians tend to turn to humor rather than revolt, but warned that, “Until we confront every bad decision of government and do the right thing ourselves…we will continue to adjust or japa (emigrate) until the country disintegrates.”
Omoba Awofeso Rasheed, another active contributor, blamed bad leadership and corruption for the suffering. “Suffering and hardship are not good for a nation like ours due to the enormous resources available to citizens,” he said, adding that the country’s challenges stem from greed, lack of trust, and insincerity of purpose.
Similarly, Samuel Adebayo (SOA) stressed that Nigeria’s wealth should translate into a better life for its citizens. “Leaders must be held accountable, and policies should be people-centered, promoting transparency and rebuilding trust in our institutions,” he urged.
While Olawale Michael remains steadfast in his defense of Tinubu’s administration, the widening frustration among Nigerians points to a deep divide in how citizens view the nation’s leadership and its promises of greatness. As the conversation continues, the question remains: Will President Tinubu’s reforms truly steer Nigeria towards prosperity, or will they leave more citizens in despair?