Doyin Okupe's claim that 80% of online insults against him come from one ethnic group sparked outrage, with many accusing him of ethnic profiling.
Former presidential aide Doyin Okupe has stirred controversy by alleging that 80% of those insulting, abusing, and disparaging him online are from a single ethnic Nigerian nationality.
Okupe, who served as the director-general of the Labour Party's presidential campaign, made the broad generalization in a post on the X platform (formerly Twitter), though he did not specify which ethnic group he was referring to.
The comments drew swift backlash from many Nigerians who accused Okupe of ethnic profiling and seeking to inflame dangerous prejudices through his rhetoric. "Sir, bringing an entire ethnic nationality down just because you want to make your point is absurd and undeserving of a personality like you," one X user wrote.
For Okupe, who has faced intense criticism over his perceived betrayal of the Labour Party after the elections, the allegation appears to be an attempt to dismiss his detractors along ethnic lines. However, observers noted the lack of evidence to substantiate his 80% claim.
"You are nothing but an ethnic jingoistic and an unrepentant, ignorant buffoon," stated one commenter, lambasting Okupe for employing divisive tribal politicking instead of acknowledging mistakes.
The controversy highlights the lingering ethnic and religious tensions in Nigeria that can be exacerbated by public figures making broad ethnic generalizations, whether intentionally or not. Critics argued such rhetoric risks inciting hatred at a time when responsible leaders should be promoting unity and reconciliation.
