Wherever you see free food, eat, times are hard – Akpabio tell Nigerians

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has sparked controversy with a recent remark encouraging Nigerians to take advantage of any opportunity for free food, acknowledging the ongoing economic challenges.

Speaking during a plenary session in a light-hearted manner, Akpabio said, “Times are difficult, and wherever you see free food, please endeavour to avail yourself,” which triggered laughter from fellow senators.

This statement comes at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with the effects of tough economic policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies, naira devaluation, and tax increases, implemented under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

These policies have led to soaring food prices and a significant rise in the cost of fuel, with prices in Abuja recently rising to N1,030 per litre and N998 in Lagos.

Akpabio, who has been criticized for making unguarded statements in the past, previously made light of protests against government policies, telling a conference in Port Harcourt, “Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be here eating.”

The Senate President’s comments have drawn mixed reactions, with some Nigerians expressing frustration over the insensitivity towards the country’s economic hardships.