Nigerian rapper and activist, Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration over what he described as misplaced governance priorities, questioning the government’s spending on luxury assets amid rising insecurity and economic hardship.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE News 360, the award-winning musician said his criticisms were based on publicly available records of government expenditure, arguing that the administration appeared to be prioritising expensive acquisitions over the welfare and security of Nigerians.
According to Falz, the huge sums reportedly spent on official vehicles, aircraft and other government assets stand in stark contrast to the country’s worsening security situation.
“If you look at what has been spent on acquiring new vehicles, acquiring jets and all these things, and look at what has actually gone on with insecurity and what we’re facing, what are your priorities?” he asked.
The rapper also rejected suggestions that the Federal Government should be excused because of the pressure associated with governing, insisting that President Tinubu voluntarily sought the country’s highest office.
“What do you mean pressure on the government? Did anyone beg you to take up this?” he said.
Falz further referenced President Tinubu’s campaign slogan, “Emi Lokan”—a Yoruba expression meaning “It’s my turn”—arguing that it underscored the President’s long-standing ambition to lead Nigeria.
“If I remember clearly, the campaign slogan for this administration was ‘Emi Lokan.’ Do you know what that translates to in English? It is my turn,” he said.
Describing the slogan as symbolic of a deliberate quest for power, the singer questioned why the administration now appeared overwhelmed by the demands of governance.
“I’ve never seen anything more absurd than that in my entire life. That means from day one that you set out on your political journey, this is the day that you have been waiting for. So why can’t you come and say the pressure is much on you? Are you okay?” he added.
Falz has remained one of the country’s most outspoken entertainers on issues of governance, accountability and social justice, frequently using his platform to comment on national policies and political developments.
