Oluremi Tinubu's Akara Comment Sparks Debate

The heated discussion around First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s remarks on akara, roasted corn, and kulikuli is still causing a stir. This is similar to the aroma of these popular snacks that many Nigerians enjoy.

This issue won’t fade away, especially after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu humorously called her Iya Alakara, meaning the akara seller, at a public event.

During an event at the State House on June 23, the First Lady launched the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Economic Empowerment Programme for Women Petty Traders. The programme offers business grants of N50,000 each to 37,000 beneficiaries across the 36 states and Abuja. She suggested that these funds could help them sell akara, roasted corn, or kulikuli.

This suggestion has led to a divide. Some people feel the First Lady was out of touch, while others disagree. It reminds me of the former French Queen, Marie Antoinette, and her link to Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s book, Confessions.

Rousseau wrote a lot about his life and the struggles of society during tough times. One famous quote linked to Antoinette is “Let them eat cake.” Although she likely didn’t say that, it shows how disconnected some elites can be from the struggles of the ordinary people.

Oluremi Tinubu did not say, “Let them eat cake,” but some people have twisted her words. In Nigeria, many people struggle daily and need help, no matter how small. There are many stories of how little support has made a big difference in people's lives.

Countries like Mexico, Brazil, and Bangladesh show that small, focused efforts can lift many out of poverty. This often includes direct cash transfers, skills training, and education.

I’m not sure if the First Lady aimed to do what Maryam Babangida’s Better Life for Rural Women could not achieve. She just wanted to reach out, and her intention seemed genuine. She later clarified her comments in Jigawa when she announced more grants.

Unfortunately, the timing was off. Many people outside the comfort of her speeches felt pain and hardship that reminded them of difficult times in history. It was not just what Remi Tinubu said; it was how people interpreted it.

In March last year, for example, she gave away thousands of professional kits to nursing students in Delta State. During this event, the Master of Ceremonies praised her with a Pidgin song, but the audience turned it into a negative chant against her.

When the First Lady announced the N50,000 grants for the RHI scheme, I’m sure people in the room applauded. But outside, the reaction was different.

Many young people could not connect with the idea of a former senator, known for being among the highest-paid politicians, offering such a small amount to petty traders. They wondered how akara fits into the serious challenges facing Nigerians, like insecurity and poverty.

I remember waiting late at night or early morning in Ajegunle for my turn to buy akara, dodo, or dun dun from the Iya Alakara. Maybe the First Lady has similar memories. Back then, my parents felt safe letting me go out, and the government took care of our school fees and healthcare.

Today, Nigeria is tougher. Many young people are frustrated and expect more from their leaders. When Bill Clinton or Barack Obama praises local food or stops for a snack, people relate to them. They know these leaders have worked hard and often leave office with less money.

The First Lady should not be discouraged from helping others. She lives in a different world from the Iya Alakara of the past. This young generation not only appreciates good deeds but also demands honesty and accountability.

In today’s Nigeria, Marie Antoinette might not even understand what’s happening outside her palace. Her advisers would likely keep her in the dark.