Ex-Ondo First Lady Faces Backlash Over Controversial Remarks on Nigeria

Former First Lady of Ondo State, Betty Akeredolu, is facing public criticism after calling Nigeria “a zoo country that is beyond redemption” in a recent social media post. Mrs. Akeredolu, whose husband, Rotimi Akeredolu, passed away in office on December 27, 2023, sparked controversy while comparing Nigeria’s election process to that of the United States on her X account.

In her post, Mrs. Akeredolu, a PhD holder, highlighted the stark difference in vote counting times between the two countries, writing, “Just thinking. 2023 Nigerian Presidential Election Total Votes Cast: 25 million, Counting Duration: 5 days. 2024 U.S. Presidential Election Total Votes Cast: 155 million, Counting Duration: Approximately 10 hours.” She concluded with, “Moral: When dishonesty is prioritised, simple things become difficult.”

The post received mixed reactions from social media users, but a comment from a user named Paulexy, who sympathized with her view, prompted Mrs. Akeredolu to respond, “Very bitter indeed! Who will rescue Nigeria? What a zoo country.” Her response ignited a wave of backlash, with many users accusing her of insulting the country that had provided her and her late husband with significant privileges.

Some responders condemned her for alleged tribalism, claiming her remarks resembled those of IPOB separatists. One user, CitizenOlu, criticized her harshly, calling her a “tribal bigot” and accusing her of being ungrateful for the benefits she gained as a governor’s wife. Another user, Iyo Obietonbara, argued that labeling Nigeria as a “zoo” disrespected the nation’s challenges, and such language could demoralize young citizens.

Further criticisms continued, with users expressing disappointment over her comments. Khone remarked that Mrs. Akeredolu was “embarrassing herself” by criticizing a system she had directly benefited from. Meanwhile, Diekololaoluwa suggested that her late husband would likely distance himself from her if given the chance, while Director Lẹykìí questioned her use of such derogatory language given her husband’s long-standing service in Nigeria’s legal and political institutions.

Despite attempts to justify her statement, the former First Lady’s remarks have continued to attract widespread disapproval, with many Nigerians condemning her choice of words and calling for more constructive discourse on the nation’s challenges.