The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, should not be discouraged from doing good, despite the fierce debate sparked by her recent comments about akara, roasted corn, and kulikuli. The controversy erupted after she suggested that beneficiaries of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Economic Empowerment Programme could reinvest grants in selling these popular local snacks.
Context of the Controversy
At a State House event on 23 June 2024, the First Lady launched the RHI programme, offering ₦50,000 business recapitalisation grants to 37,000 petty traders—1,000 from each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Her suggestion that recipients could sell akara, roasted corn, or kulikuli drew sharp criticism, with many accusing her of being out of touch with the struggles of ordinary Nigerians.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu added fuel to the fire by jokingly referring to his wife as "Iya Alakara" (akara seller) at a public event, intensifying the debate on social media and in public discourse.
Historical Parallels and Misunderstandings
The controversy has drawn comparisons to the apocryphal tale of Marie Antoinette, who is said to have remarked "Let them eat cake" upon learning that French peasants had no bread. However, unlike that legend, the First Lady's intentions were rooted in a desire to help, according to observers.
"I'm not sure that, in offering a token to support akara or kulikuli sellers, the First Lady wanted to achieve what Maryam Babangida's Better Life for Rural Women could not, or that she was aiming for her own improved, pet version of Patience Jonathan's Women of Change… She just wanted to reach out, and her heart was obviously in a good place," wrote Azu Ishiekwene, Editor-In-Chief of LEADERSHIP, in an analysis.
Timing and Perception
Despite her good intentions, the timing of the remarks was problematic. In a country grappling with insecurity, poverty, and poor access to healthcare and education, the suggestion seemed insensitive to many. "It was not what Remi Tinubu said; it was what was heard that has become the problem," Ishiekwene noted.
The First Lady later clarified her comments in Jigawa, announcing additional grants. However, the damage was done, with many young Nigerians—particularly Gen Z—feeling disconnected from the leadership.
Small Interventions Can Make a Difference
While critics dismissed the ₦50,000 grant as insufficient, proponents argue that small, targeted efforts can lift people out of poverty. Countries like Mexico, Brazil, and Bangladesh have successfully used cash transfers, skills training, and education to reduce poverty. In Nigeria, stories abound of individuals whose lives were transformed by such interventions.
"I agree that even today, there are still some exceptions to the rule, including my favourite boli seller along CMD Road, Lagos, who once told me sales from the business largely paid her son's University of Lagos fees," Ishiekwene wrote.
A Call for Authenticity
The First Lady's experience mirrors a broader trend: today's youth demand authenticity from their leaders. When former US Presidents Bill Clinton or Barack Obama stopped at McDonald's for a burger, voters related to them because of their modest backgrounds. In contrast, Nigerian leaders often face scrutiny over their wealth and disconnect from everyday realities.
"The First Lady should not be discouraged from well-doing. She's in a different world from that of the Iya Alakara of old. This chill-less generation would not only welcome the Good Samaritan but also demand authenticity and scrutinise him," Ishiekwene concluded.
As the debate continues, the lesson for public figures is clear: good intentions must be matched with an understanding of the audience's struggles. In today's Nigeria, even a well-meaning gesture can be misconstrued if it appears out of touch.
