Isaac Fayose Condemns Diaspora Nigerians for Backing Tinubu's Re-Election
Popular social commentator Isaac Fayose has launched a scathing critique against Nigerians living abroad for their support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his recent visit to the United Kingdom. In a video shared on his Instagram page on March 18, 2026, Fayose accused those in the diaspora of ignoring the severe hardships faced by citizens in Nigeria while celebrating the president from the comfort of overseas.
Fayose Questions Loyalty and Highlights Hypocrisy
Fayose pointed out that many Nigerians left the country due to poor living conditions, including persistent power outages, deteriorating roads, and failing healthcare systems. He described it as selfish and disconnected for these individuals to gather abroad and show loyalty to leadership they fled from, rather than returning to confront the same struggles alongside their fellow citizens.
In his remarks, Fayose stated, "Nigerians are one of the most selfish people in the world. You, wey you japa, you japa because of APC hardship in the last 10 years. From Buhari to Tinubu, you ran away, you left the country because the country is not good." He emphasized that even areas near the presidential villa suffer from electricity problems, and hospitals like UCH and Oluyoro Oke-Ofa remain without power.
Call for Action and Mixed Online Reactions
Fayose challenged diaspora Nigerians to return home if they genuinely believe in Tinubu's mandate, saying, "You guys are just fooling yourself because if Nigeria is good, you will be at home. You won't be in the cold. Come back here if you are sure Nigeria is good. If you are standing on the mandate, let's stand together." His comments came as sections of Nigerians in the UK warmly welcomed Tinubu, sparking a flurry of mixed reactions on social media.
Netizens expressed varied opinions on the issue. For instance, @rayfixy commented, "When I hear Nigeria is the greatest country in Africa, I just laugh in Spanish. As how now? If Nigeria is the greatest country in Africa, why the mumu japa, let him come back home and live on the greatest country in Africa." Others, like @LyfAcrosBorders, noted, "Some Nigerians abroad sing praises for a failed leadership while enjoying safety, stability, and opportunities they couldn't find at home. Loyalty isn't the issue—survival is."
Broader Context and Previous Criticisms
This is not the first time Fayose has voiced strong opinions on political matters. Earlier, he reacted to the City Boy Movement event in Owerri, where Seyi Tinubu was present, questioning the heavy security deployment and whether it signaled the start of a political campaign or a potential breach of law. He also expressed doubts about Tinubu's support in Imo State and raised concerns over ongoing issues such as electricity and petrol shortages affecting residents.
The debate highlights deeper tensions within the Nigerian community regarding diaspora involvement in domestic politics and the perceived disconnect between those abroad and the realities on the ground. As discussions continue online, Fayose's remarks underscore a call for more grounded engagement from Nigerians overseas in addressing the country's challenges.
