‘Nigeria is better now than 3 years ago,’ claims billionaire’s son Wahab Okoya

Wahab Okoya, the 19-year-old son of billionaire industrialist Chief Rasaq Okoya, has asserted that Nigeria has seen significant improvement over the past three years, sparking a heated public debate about the disconnect between the country’s elite and its general population.

During a recent interview on the “Cruise” show, Okoya suggested that the progress might not be apparent to those living in Nigeria continuously. He argued that the positive changes are more noticeable to individuals who, like himself, travel abroad frequently.

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“If you compare Nigeria of three years ago to Nigeria of today, we’re getting better,” Okoya stated. “I know it’s because you guys live in Nigeria, but for us that go to school and come back, like when I come back, the change is so visible.”

He also added that the government deserves more recognition for its efforts despite the prevailing economic and social challenges. “We are not giving our government credit because it’s hard, and they are really trying,” he said.

Public Backlash Highlights Perceived Disconnect

Okoya’s comments quickly drew widespread criticism online, with many pointing out that his perspective is insulated from the daily struggles faced by average Nigerians. The controversy intensified when it was highlighted that, during the same interview, Okoya admitted he was unaware of the current price of fuel in the country.

Critics argue that his “visitor” perspective is based on superficial changes rather than the harsh economic realities of record-high inflation and a devalued currency. The fact that he praised the government’s efforts while being shielded from the consequences of policies like the removal of the fuel subsidy was seen by many as a lack of empathy.

Social media users were quick to react, with one commenter noting, “Nigeria can be better in your eyes when you’re a billionaire’s son who can afford to school abroad. Of course, Wahab’s Nigeria experience is vastly different from the average citizen struggling with inflation, fuel costs, and insecurity.”

Another user added, “Coming from someone that doesn’t know the price of fuel… A privileged person can never relate to the reality of harsh life most Nigerians are facing every day.” The sentiment was echoed by many who felt his remarks demonstrated that the wealthy live in a “different realm far from reality.”

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A fierce online debate has ignited over Nigeria’s current economic conditions, with citizens offering sharply contrasting views on whether the country is better off now than in previous years. The discussion, fueled by political affiliations and personal experiences, highlights the deep divisions in public opinion.

One perspective argues that Nigeria’s situation has improved compared to 2023, challenging others to evaluate the state of the nation in three-year intervals stretching back to 2014. This viewpoint suggests that as elections approach, political actors are manipulating statistics to sway public opinion.

Critics, however, dismiss these claims as propaganda. “Are we supposed to eat statistics?” one commenter retorted, accusing the government of hypocrisy. They pointed to unfulfilled promises, such as the pledge for 24/7 electricity, and noted the irony of the Power Minister criticizing citizens for “wasting light” while the presidential villa, Aso Rock, reportedly operates off the national grid.

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The conversation also turned to the everyday impact of the economy on households. One individual shared an anecdote about his wife, who used to frequently complain about rising market prices but has recently fallen silent. He connected this to a televised report that the price of beans had dropped significantly, suggesting that her silence indicated an improvement in affordability.

This observation was met with skepticism. Another participant countered that the silence was likely a sign of resignation, stating, “She is tired of complaining and has adjusted to the harsh reality.”

Other comments reflected widespread frustration. One person lamented the deteriorating electricity supply, saying, “I got better electricity three years back than now. If not for solar, I would have been in total darkness.”

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Another described Nigeria as “a country that takes from the poor and gives to the rich,” accusing supporters of the current administration of being pretenders who “curse Tinubu and his wife” in private.

The debate was punctuated by personal attacks, with users dismissing opposing views based on perceived age or political leanings, labeling them “agbadorian” (a supporter of the ruling party) or suggesting they are too young to understand the struggles of ordinary Nigerians.