Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila has faced a severe backlash on social media after endorsing his boss’s call for social media regulation amidst the country’s economic challenges.
Gbajabiamila’s remarks, made during a book launch on Thursday, labeled social media as a “societal menace” that required regulation due to the perceived “great danger” it posed.
The criticisms unleashed a storm on Twitter, where Gbajabiamila trended for hours, now referred to as X.
Netizens expressed their disappointment, accusing him and his principal of neglecting pressing issues such as poverty alleviation during a dire economic crisis.
Many Nigerians questioned Gbajabiamila’s priorities, arguing that addressing soaring inflation and the alarming rate of abductions should take precedence over regulating social media.
Some users pointed out the irony of Gbajabiamila, who benefited from social media during his rise to power, now advocating for its regulation.
@BarcaPrincipal expressed frustration, stating, “Inflation has reached its peak; hunger and starvation are everywhere, but they want to regulate the social media that millions use as an escape from the pure sadness caused by the APC government.”
@sports_Doctor2 questioned Gbajabiamila’s role, highlighting his appointed position and suggesting he was suffering from “Imposter Syndrome.”
@UnlimitedEniola emphasized that social media was not the problem but rather bad governance and poor leadership.
Criticism extended to Gbajabiamila’s past in the U.S., with @ChrisOkpokiri referencing his revoked law license over corruption issues.
Meanwhile, @Rukky_Nate accused him of neglecting crucial issues in favor of social media regulation.
In the midst of this, @ChiksEricE expressed dismay, stating, “Femi Gbajabiamila is more concerned with regulating social media. So social media is now the bandits? Or those kidnappers in the country? Sigh.”
As the debate rages on, concerns grow about the potential impact of stifling social media in an era where information dissemination is crucial.
The criticism reflects a wider sentiment among Nigerians who feel that their leaders should prioritize addressing urgent challenges over curbing online expression.
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