A video circulating on social media has sparked backlash across northern Nigeria, showing food packages featuring images of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his son, Seyi Tinubu.
The food, distributed as Ramadan aid, included street staples like Dan wake, a common meal made from bean flour, potash, and baobab leaves. However, many northerners have criticized the gesture, calling it an attempt to exploit the fasting period for political gain.
In the viral video, a frustrated narrator describes the food distribution as an “insult,” questioning its sincerity. “This is an insult, Allah! Rice and Danwake, and they say it’s from Seyi Tinubu for Iftar? This is an insult,” the narrator exclaims.
Read also:
Agricultural Revolution of Gov Bago Takes Another Step
Northern Nigeria has been grappling with economic hardship, insecurity, and infrastructure challenges, making this move appear tone-deaf to many. Critics argue that providing basic street food in branded plastic bags is not genuine charity but a calculated effort to win public sympathy amid growing dissatisfaction with the government.
The controversy follows Seyi Tinubu’s March 5 visit to Minna, Niger State, where he was seen distributing food packages to youths during Iftar. Many believe the visit was politically motivated, with some questioning Seyi’s connection to the Islamic community.
One social media user, Mohammed Alh. Sanni, expressed skepticism:
“When did Seyi Tinubu become a Muslim? Or is he just using Ramadan as a tool to gain access to the people?”
As frustrations mount, many Nigerians are voicing concerns over political figures using religion and charity as a means of influence, rather than addressing the pressing economic and social issues facing the nation.
