Betty Akeredolu Faces Backlash for Calling Nigeria a “Zoo Country”

Former Ondo First Lady, Betty Akeredolu, faced significant backlash on social media after describing Nigeria as a “zoo country” she believes is beyond redemption.

Mrs. Akeredolu, whose husband Rotimi Akeredolu passed away on December 27, 2023, while serving as the governor of Ondo State, made the controversial statement in a post on her X account. In her post, she drew comparisons between Nigeria’s presidential election and the United States’.

She wrote:

“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: Approx. 10 hours.

“Moral: When dishonesty is prioritized, simple things become difficult.”

Her post sparked a variety of reactions, with some users agreeing with her perspective while others disagreed. However, one particular comment from a user, Paulexy (@paul_oza), caught her attention, prompting her to describe Nigeria as a “zoo country.” The user commented:

“Truth is indeed bitter. I can understand the attacks on her. We are doomed in this country Nigeria.”

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: Approx. 10 hours

Moral:

When dishonesty is prioritized, simple things become difficult.

— Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, PhD (@adaowere1) November 13, 2024