An APC youth leader defends First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s controversial comments about petty trading after they drew widespread backlash on social media. Speaking in Abuja at a press conference, the youth leader says critics are misrepresenting the intent of the remark and argues that small-scale business is more dignified than being stigmatized in harmful ways. He frames the “akara seller” example as encouragement for micro-enterprise and self-reliance, adding that he considers it preferable to be known for lawful work rather than “filthy things.” He also says his own mother sold akara.
The remarks are described as having gone viral in videos recorded by News Century TV. Supporters of the First Lady, including presidential aides, portray the comments as part of a broader message about the dignity of labour and micro-businesses, rather than a focus on one trade. The First Lady is also reported to have clarified that Federal Government empowerment programmes cover many categories of traders, such as those dealing in tomatoes, pepper, vegetables, and roasted plantain, with beneficiaries receiving ₦50,000 each under a ₦100 million grant. The reports also cite earlier empowerment initiatives attributed to her office, including donations for health-related causes.
