Things aren’t as bad as people say, Jide Kosoko defends Tinubu

Veteran Nigerian actor Jide Kosoko has come to President Bola Tinubu's defense, asserting that the country's current situation is not as dire as some Nigerians claim. The actor made these remarks in an interview on the Talktobpodcast, discussing the public complaints about the rising cost of food. Kosoko challenged those complaining of hunger to consider their own circumstances before Tinubu became President, questioning what they were eating before.

He argued that situations evolve over time, implying that the current state is not as problematic as it may seem.

Kosoko maintained that Nigerians are generating income through various avenues, and those who have yet to succeed will have their turn eventually. While acknowledging that some citizens are suffering, he clarified that he is not suggesting that everything is perfect. Instead, he urged Nigerians to grant the President and his team the opportunity to finish what they began.

The actor also defended the removal of fuel subsidies, comparing it to borrowing money without a repayment plan. He argued that the savings that could have been made from keeping the subsidy would have been useful for necessities such as school fees. He noted that the student loan scheme has now taken on some of the roles previously handled by parents.

In terms of food, Kosoko advised Nigerians to eat well even if it means consuming a good meal just once a day, emphasizing that good nutrition is attainable without extravagant spending. He also blamed traders and sellers for price hikes, asserting that they are the ones responsible for raising prices, not the government.

Lastly, Kosoko discouraged destructive protests, while acknowledging that constructive criticism is necessary to help the government understand the extent of public pain. He expressed no intention to leave the country, stating that he has family and relatives still residing in Nigeria. Kosoko concluded by urging Nigerians to stop speaking negatively about the country, emphasizing that Nigeria is indeed a great nation.