In 1966, when Chinua Achebe penned “A Man of the People,” he wasn’t merely capturing the Nigeria of his time; he was envisioning a future Nigeria—the Nigeria we know today. Chief Nanga, the cunning politician in Achebe’s novel, is eerily reminiscent of the current President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the self-proclaimed “man of the people” and Nigeria’s Commander-in-Chief.
Chief Nanga, like many Nigerian politicians, represents the flaws of the ruling class—ruthless, self-serving, and disconnected from the masses. Achebe’s prophetic vision seems to be unfolding before our eyes with Tinubu. Dubbed “Jagaban” by his followers, Tinubu is a seasoned political operator who has seen it all, from leading Lagos to presiding over the entire nation. But his presidency begs the question: is he truly a man of the people, or simply a man for a select few?
When Tinubu assumed office, the hopes of 223 million Nigerians rested on his shoulders. He was celebrated for his political acumen and his reputation as a “kingmaker,” but his leadership has left many disillusioned. What began as promises of change and renewal now feels like a continuation of the status quo, packaged in a new agbada—a reminder that change often looks different in reality than in theory.
The journey to Tinubu’s presidency was fraught with anticipation and skepticism. In early 2022, rumors swirled about his presidential ambitions. By January, he formally declared his intent to run for office, meeting then-President Muhammadu Buhari in a private discussion to solidify his plans. Tinubu’s victory in the APC primary in June 2022 secured his path to the presidency, culminating in a contentious and unpredictable election in February 2023.
Tinubu’s presidency, however, has been marked by a series of controversial decisions. His bold reforms—fuel subsidy removal, currency devaluation—were touted as people-centered, but many Nigerians feel they are bearing the brunt. These moves, while appearing strategic on paper, have hit everyday citizens hard, leaving them grappling with rising costs and economic instability.
The swift removal of the fuel subsidy during Tinubu’s inaugural speech shocked the nation. What was meant to curb the profits of smugglers and rent-seekers has instead burdened ordinary Nigerians with skyrocketing fuel prices, making even the basics of life feel like luxury. Similarly, the economic instability has turned shopping for essentials into a gamble, with prices fluctuating wildly and salaries stretched thin.
While Tinubu promised a government that would amplify the voice of the people, his administration has often silenced dissent. Protests against his policies have been met with heavy-handed responses, including arrests and charges of treason against protesters and activists. High-profile incidents, such as the detainment of journalists and labor leaders, have highlighted a disturbing trend of suppressing free expression.
Tinubu’s presidency, still in its early stages, will ultimately be judged not by his rhetoric or political maneuvering but by the real impact on the lives of ordinary Nigerians. As the cost of living continues to rise and economic challenges mount, many are left questioning whether the title “man of the people” is an honor or a bitter irony. For now, it seems like the legacy of President Tinubu remains uncertain, caught between the promise of hope and the stark realities of governance.
