Social media personality and businessman, Isaac Fayose, has sparked widespread reactions after accusing Nigeria of operating a justice system that punishes petty offenders while allegedly rewarding those accused of large-scale corruption with public appointments.
Speaking in a video that went viral on social media, Fayose lamented what he described as a glaring disparity in the treatment of suspected petty thieves and politically connected individuals accused of looting public funds.
According to him, those accused of stealing basic food items often become victims of mob justice, while alleged high-profile looters receive public recognition and political opportunities.
“Nigeria is the only country in the world. When you steal small, maybe bread, Maggi or rice, they will un-alive you on the spot, like jungle justice,” he said.
He alleged that suspected petty thieves are frequently lynched without being given the opportunity to defend themselves in court.
“But when you steal big, you carry billions, you will make the headlines. You will be on the front page of newspapers,” he added.
Fayose went further to mock what he portrayed as the treatment of influential individuals facing corruption allegations, claiming they are often rewarded instead of punished.
“They will now look at you and say, ‘Ah, this guy is a good thief, he’s a big thief.’ They will now give you a better, juicy appointment where you can even carry more,” he said sarcastically.
The social commentator also criticised the country’s anti-corruption campaign, arguing that it has failed to tackle corruption at the highest levels.
“If you are still sitting down thinking this country will develop, you are deceiving yourself because of corruption,” he stated.
Fayose further alleged that anti-corruption agencies devote greater attention to internet fraud suspects than to public officials accused of corruption, although he did not provide evidence to support the claim.
In a sarcastic closing remark, he said:
“Whatever you do, try not to be poor, and try not to steal small. Steal big so you can make the headlines and get a juicy position after. God bless Nigeria.”
