Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, has faced intense backlash from Nigerians following his recent comments urging citizens to find alternative income sources to survive the nation’s economic challenges.
Many have accused Onanuga of inconsistency, with some calling his advice “deluded” and questioning the government's economic approach.In his statement, Onanuga suggested that Nigerians should diversify their sources of income, emphasizing the need for personal resilience in the face of inflation, rising fuel prices, and economic instability. However, this advice has sparked outrage among citizens, who argue that it contradicts the government’s broader policies, especially its push to encourage farming and self-sufficiency.
"Have I ever seen a deluded grand fool like Bayo Onanuga?" one frustrated Twitter user wrote. "He tells people to go farm, then turns around and says don’t live on one income. Is this how a capitalist idealist government works?"
Critics have pointed out what they see as a lack of clarity and coherence in the government’s economic policies. On one hand, President Tinubu's administration has promoted farming as a way to boost self-sufficiency, with a focus on agricultural development. On the other hand, Onanuga’s suggestion to seek multiple income streams seems to contradict the emphasis on farming as a primary source of livelihood for many Nigerians.
“It's confusing,” another critic said. “You can’t tell people to go to the farm and then tell them not to rely on a single income. It’s not adding up. People need clear direction, not contradictions.”
The backlash highlights the growing frustration among Nigerians who are grappling with the current economic climate. Many citizens are calling for more practical and concrete solutions from the government, rather than advice that appears disconnected from their daily realities.
While Onanuga’s comments were meant to encourage adaptability in a tough economic environment, they have been perceived by many as out of touch with the struggles faced by ordinary Nigerians. As the government continues to address the nation’s economic challenges, these criticisms reflect the growing demand for clear, consistent policies that genuinely address the needs of the people.
