In a video circulating on social media either recent or old same message was passed, Senate President Godswill Akpabio was seen laughing with colleagues during a plenary session while making an insensitive remark that Nigerians should help themselves wherever they find free food. This statement comes at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with severe economic challenges, largely resulting from President Bola Tinubu’s policies, such as the removal of the fuel subsidy, which has caused petrol prices to soar.
With petrol now selling for over N1,000 per litre in some areas, the removal of the subsidy has left many struggling to afford basic living costs. The latest hike in fuel prices, the second within a month, underscores the deepening financial strain on Nigerians. While the government has justified the policy as necessary to ease fiscal burdens, the hardships faced by the population seem to be overlooked by those in high office.
Akpabio’s comment is not his first display of indifference. During a July event in Port Harcourt, he similarly mocked Nigerians planning to protest against economic difficulties, claiming that while people protested, lawmakers would be “eating.” This pattern reveals a deeper issue — a growing disconnection between leaders and the citizens they are meant to serve.
As the third most powerful official in Nigeria, Akpabio’s remarks reflect poorly on the leadership as a whole. It suggests that some of President Tinubu’s closest allies may not share his vision of progress for the country, nor are they empathetic to the worsening economic conditions faced by Nigerians. Instead of demonstrating compassion and a willingness to address these issues, the Senate President’s words highlight an attitude of indifference.
This paints a disheartening picture of the current leadership climate. Rather than working toward easing the suffering of the Nigerian people, key government figures appear more focused on maintaining their comfort. In challenging times, leadership demands empathy and a commitment to serving the public. However, some leaders seem to be widening the gap between themselves and the people they represent.
In response to Akpabio’s remarks, Dr. Tofunmi Ogunronbi, a former gubernatorial candidate from Ogun State and an advocate for the Sustainable Development Goals, stated, “Akpabio’s remarks reflect a shocking level of disconnection from the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians. As leaders, we are called to serve and uplift our communities, especially during times of economic hardship. Such insensitive comments are not only disappointing but also highlight a lack of compassion and understanding for the struggles of the citizens. We must hold our leaders accountable and ensure that they prioritize the welfare of the people they represent over their own comfort.”
Dr. Ogunronbi further emphasized, “It is imperative that those in leadership positions recognize the pain and suffering of the Nigerian people. Insensitive remarks like those made by Akpabio only serve to alienate leaders from their constituents. We need leaders who are not just strategic but are also deeply connected to the needs of the citizens they serve.”
For President Tinubu, this moment should serve as a wake-up call. His cabinet must consist of individuals who are genuinely committed to public service and improving the lives of Nigerians. The country needs leaders who prioritize the welfare of the people over making light of their struggles. If Tinubu is to lead Nigeria through these difficult economic times, he must ensure that those around him are equally focused on finding solutions, not dismissing the hardships of the population.
In these critical times, Nigeria requires selfless and compassionate leadership. Akpabio’s remarks emphasize the urgent need for the president to reassess the values and commitment of his cabinet. Dr. Ogunronbi concluded by stating, “Leadership is a call to service, and now more than ever, Nigeria needs leaders who will rise to that call and be a source of hope for the citizens, rather than an example of indifference.”
Nigerians deserve leaders who will stand with them and provide guidance, not those who mock their challenges from a position of privilege.
