Seun Kuti criticized President Tinubu’s decision to remove the fuel subsidy, calling it a “wicked decision” that hurts Nigerians. He condemned the purchase of a $150 million presidential jet, arguing the funds could have been used to improve education. Kuti's remarks sparked widespread reactions on social media.
Afrobeat musician Seun Kuti has criticized President Bola Tinubu for removing Nigeria’s fuel subsidy, calling it a "wicked decision" that harms citizens. In a passionate Instagram Live session, Kuti refuted Tinubu's claims that the move was a "tough decision" for the country’s benefit. Kuti argued that the decision lacked compassion, especially when juxtaposed with the government's purchase of a $150 million jet, which he believes could have been used to build and maintain schools for years.
Kuti expressed his frustration over the government’s priorities, highlighting the disconnect between the extravagant expenditure on a presidential jet and the underfunding of the educational sector. He emphasized that the money spent on the jet could have built and operated 10 primary schools for 20 years, educating several generations of children.
Social media reactions have been mixed, with some supporting Kuti's stance, while others defended Tinubu’s decision, considering it a necessary economic reform. Some critics echoed Kuti’s sentiments, labeling the removal as "wickedness" and calling for tougher reforms, such as confronting oil thieves and restructuring the petroleum sector.
This debate reflects growing frustration among Nigerians, who are increasingly questioning the government's priorities in addressing the nation’s economic challenges. Kuti's outburst has further fueled public discourse on the impact of the fuel subsidy removal.