A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Joe Igbokwe, has condemned the wave of criticism directed at First Lady Oluremi Tinubu following her recent remarks encouraging Nigerians to embrace small-scale entrepreneurship.
The First Lady came under heavy criticism on social media after a video surfaced showing her advising Nigerians, particularly young people, to consider starting small and medium-sized businesses. She cited frying and selling akara as an example of a business that requires little capital to begin.
Her comments sparked widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians arguing that the government should focus on creating employment opportunities rather than encouraging petty trading amid rising economic hardship.
Reacting to the criticism in a Facebook post on Saturday, Igbokwe expressed disappointment over the public response, insisting that the First Lady’s remarks were intended as sincere advice.
“This generation frightens me to the marrow,” he wrote.
“An honest advice Her Excellency Oluremi Tinubu gave to young Nigerians on how to help themselves has become a tool for abuse and pouring invectives.”
The APC stalwart further lamented what he described as the misuse of social media as a platform for insults and hostility, even when, in his view, constructive suggestions are offered.
“Social media has become a tool to unleash scurrilous drivels even when the truth is spoken,” he stated.
He concluded his post by expressing frustration over the reactions, saying he was ashamed by the conduct of some critics.
“We will learn, las las. See the empty heads and headless mobs dancing naked in the public space left and right. Awon werey everywhere. Shame has enveloped me,” Igbokwe wrote.
The First Lady’s comments continue to generate debate online, reflecting broader public concerns over unemployment, the rising cost of living, and expectations of government intervention to address Nigeria’s economic challenges.