A fiery exchange between a concerned Nigerian woman and Mr. Tope Fasua, Special Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs, has gone viral on social media.
In a public forum organized by the Kayhikers Club Abuja Chapter, the young woman passionately confronted Fasua about the harsh realities facing ordinary citizens. She highlighted skyrocketing food prices, noting that basic items like tomatoes are no longer affordable at ₦500, and lamented the lack of basic amenities, widespread insecurity, and the fear of walking the streets due to phone snatching and robbery. Her questions captured the deep frustration of many Nigerians grappling with the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and safety concerns under the current administration.
Fasua’s response has drawn widespread criticism for being dismissive. Rather than addressing the specific issues raised, he pivoted to international comparisons, stating that phone snatching occurs even in London and recounting a story from a Cameroonian vlogger about worse conditions in Cameroon. He claimed Nigerians have “moved ahead” of such situations, a remark that many viewed as tone-deaf and out of touch with domestic realities.
Watch the video below:
Public backlash on social media has been swift and intense, with many accusing the adviser of gaslighting citizens and failing to empathize with their struggles. Online reactions described the response as emblematic of a government disconnected from the people’s pain, especially amid record inflation, naira devaluation, and persistent threats from banditry and kidnappings. Critics argued that while petty crime exists globally, Nigeria faces far more severe challenges that demand direct solutions rather than excuses or comparisons. The incident has fueled broader discussions about the Tinubu administration’s economic policies and their impact since 2023.
