Presidential media aide Bayo Onanuga has stirred controversy by stating that he does not understand why Nigerians are complaining about hunger, despite widespread food scarcity and rising costs. Speaking on Arise News on June 23, Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, questioned the basis for public complaints.
Onanuga's Personal Observations
Onanuga said his personal staff's feedback suggests the economic situation is manageable. "I don't see the level of hunger people are talking about because I see them, and I keep asking them questions. How are things? How are they adjusting? What are the problems?" he said.
He referenced a viral video from early in Tinubu's presidency where a voiceover shouted "We are hungry o!!!" as the President left a Lagos mosque. Since then, Onanuga claimed, the hunger narrative has persisted without basis.
Response to Criticism of Government Lavishness
When the interviewer noted that government officials live lavishly while asking the masses to "tighten their belts," Onanuga countered that even ministers have tightened belts. He claimed some ministers use personal funds to run their offices.
"That is not totally true. Let me tell you a story. Today, after a meeting, I spoke with the Minister of Finance. It will shock people that some Ministers come into office to serve. Some of them have been using their personal funds to run," he said.
Public Reaction
The comments have sparked widespread criticism on social media, with many accusing Onanuga of being out of touch with the reality of Nigerians facing soaring food prices and inflation. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, food inflation stood at over 40% in May 2024, exacerbating hardship for millions.
