A controversial post on social media has sparked intense debate after a Nigerian man suggested extreme punishment for citizens who publicly praise President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.
The remark, shared on X (formerly Twitter), quickly went viral, drawing sharp reactions from Nigerians divided over Tinubu’s policies, reforms, and the country’s current trajectory.
The post was made by an X user identified as Abu Amir, a member of the Obidient movement and supporter of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi. Abu Amir argued that many supporters of the president were motivated by personal benefits rather than genuine concern for national development.
He wrote:
“Supporting Tinubu because you stand to personally benefit something is okay but telling us that you support Tinubu because he’s going to move this country forward should be punishable by death.”
The statement immediately triggered widespread condemnation over its violent tone, while also reigniting broader arguments about the impact of the Tinubu administration.
Supporters of the president pushed back strongly, insisting that current policies are laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth.
An X user, M.O.E, wrote:
“Tinubu is leading Nigeria to a new dawn, an era of growth, progress and shared prosperity. Tinubu will succeed. Nigeria shall be great. God Bless Nigeria.”
Another supporter, Smart Jem, questioned critics of the government’s direction, stating:
“But Tinubu is going to move the country forward na. Country dey on this kine trajectory you’re still saying it’s not progress????”
Chico, also defending the administration, described Tinubu’s reforms as painful but necessary:
“Tinubu has so far the best reforms of any president. It looks hard now but if sustained will transform our dear nation.”
Some Nigerians cited personal experiences as evidence of progress under the current government. Adepoju listed several changes he claimed to have observed, including improved electricity supply, reduced fuel queues, fewer pipeline vandalism incidents, the introduction of student loans, foreign exchange unification, and stricter controls on car smuggling.
“Didirin, let me tell why I have no regret… I can go on,” he wrote.
However, critics rejected these claims, arguing that economic hardship has worsened and that government supporters are downplaying the struggles of ordinary citizens.
John wrote:
“Benefit from Tinubu if you like, but stop pretending it’s about Nigeria’s future. This government has brought more hardship than hope, and no amount of spin can hide that.”
Another user, Akamel, drew comparisons with past administrations, warning against repeating familiar narratives:
“The same people who told us Buhari’s ‘reforms’ was a necessary pain… Give them another 10 years and it will be same story.”
The exchange underscores Nigeria’s deep political divisions, as citizens remain split over whether President Tinubu’s reforms will lead to lasting progress or prolonged economic hardship.
Published by Ejoh Caleb
