Nigerians Respond With Sarcasm To First Lady’s Tinubu Praise
By NJORIGE LYNUS
‘Architect of Modern Nigeria’ Comment Sparks Online Reckoning
WHEN First Lady Oluremi Tinubu described President Bola Tinubu as “the architect of modern Nigeria,” many Nigerians responded not with applause but with biting commentary that reflected deep economic anxiety.
Posted on her official Facebook page, the statement quickly gained traction, drawing thousands of reactions and comments that turned the post into an unfiltered vox-pop on the state of the nation.
Citizens Push Back
Several Nigerians used satire to counter what they viewed as political exaggeration. Muhammad Jibo’s comment highlighted key policies such as subsidy removal and increased taxation, arguing that these actions had worsened living conditions.
Others leaned on religious metaphors. Oluwatimilehin Emmanuel’s comment — “Jezebel dey praise Zaccheus” — became emblematic of the mood, suggesting self-serving praise amid public suffering.
Between Anger and Disappointment
Not all reactions were scathing. Some conveyed confusion and lost optimism. MI Vonke-Lome Jere wrote that while the president has capacity, current realities are difficult to reconcile with official optimism.
Questions like “Which hope?” and “Who increased pain?” repeatedly appeared, reflecting a widening gap between official narratives and lived experience.
Humour as Resistance
For others, the comment section itself became a form of relief. Users joked openly about scrolling past the post to enjoy the reactions instead, turning political frustration into dark humour.
Pattern of Praise, Pattern of Backlash
The post is not an isolated incident. In recent months, Mrs. Tinubu has repeatedly praised the president online, describing him as “Father of the Nation” and projecting long-term leadership. Each instance has drawn intense scrutiny from Nigerians struggling with economic pressures.
As reforms continue, public response suggests that political messaging — particularly self-praise — is increasingly tested in Nigeria’s digital public square.
