A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ayekooto Akindele, has hit back at Nigerian rapper Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, following the artiste’s criticism of First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s recent appeal to Afrobeats stars to invest more in charitable causes.
Falz had, during an interview on Arise Television, faulted the First Lady’s call for top musicians to reduce spending on luxury cars and channel more resources into supporting small businesses and charitable foundations.
Speaking at an event in Lokoja, Kogi State, on Saturday, Mrs. Tinubu urged successful entertainers to contribute to nation-building by supporting small-scale businesses, noting that the government alone could not meet every need.
Reacting to the appeal, Falz argued that addressing poverty and supporting struggling businesses are fundamental responsibilities of the government.
“Why ask individuals when this is actually your job to do? What do you mean by saying the pressure is too much on the government? Did anyone force you to take up the job?” the rapper asked.
He also referenced the administration’s campaign slogan, Emi Lokan (“It’s my turn”), saying those who sought public office should be prepared for the responsibilities that come with leadership.
“From day one that you set out on your political journey, this is the day you have been waiting for. So how can you now say the pressure is too much?” Falz added.
Responding in a post on his verified X account, Ayekooto Akindele dismissed the rapper’s remarks, claiming the First Lady’s appeal was directed at some of Nigeria’s biggest Afrobeats stars and not Falz.
“Falz, stop talking jargons. The First Lady didn’t mention your name. She knows you yourself need help due to career capsizing. She only mentioned Davido, Wizkid and Burna Boy.
“So, why you’re the one replying is what I don’t understand,” Akindele wrote.
The exchange has since sparked reactions on social media, with supporters of both figures debating the role of government, celebrities and private citizens in addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges.
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