Governor Dapo Abiodun has labeled Nigerians protesting economic hardships under President Tinubu as "sore losers." His comments sparked widespread backlash on social media, reflecting deep frustration among citizens facing high inflation and rising food prices. Abiodun’s remarks have intensified the #EndHunger protests nationwide.Governor Dapo Abiodun has sharply criticized Nigerians expressing discontent over the severe economic hardships resulting from President Bola Tinubu’s policies, labeling them as "sore losers." In a Thursday night interview with Channels TV, Abiodun attributed the nationwide #EndHunger protests to the machinations of politicians who lost to Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election.
“Tinubu majorly won that election. And that says one thing, that those who want him to be president are more than those that didn’t want him to be president,” Abiodun asserted. He continued, “The problem we have today is that Nigerians are sore losers. Rather than deciding or accepting the fact that if you want a regime change, wait for 2027. Don’t begin to sponsor faceless and leaderless protests under the guise that you are dissatisfied. Yes, the odd reality is not peculiar to Nigeria alone.”
Under Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria’s inflation has soared to 34 percent, with food prices skyrocketing. Despite the International Monetary Fund praising Tinubu’s policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates, the economy has continued to deteriorate.
Abiodun's statements have ignited widespread backlash on social media. One user posted the video of Abiodun’s interview, expressing outrage and calling him an "incompetent criminal." Another user described Abiodun as "one of the most useless governors," while others criticized his lack of significant achievements during his tenure in Ogun State. The general sentiment among Nigerians online is one of disappointment and anger towards Abiodun's remarks, with many emphasizing the governor’s failure to address the hardships faced by ordinary citizens.
The #EndHunger protests reflect deep-seated frustration among Nigerians, who are grappling with escalating costs of living and economic instability. Abiodun's comments have only added fuel to the fire, highlighting the growing divide between the government and the populace.
