Onanuga Defends Tinubu Against ‘T-pain’ Label, Stresses Focus on Economic Recovery

Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on information and strategy to President Bola Tinubu, has addressed the growing criticism surrounding the nickname “T-pain,” a social media label that combines “Tinubu” and “pain” to express public frustration over Nigeria’s economic difficulties.

In an interview with Channels Television, Onanuga clarified that President Tinubu is aware of the challenges facing Nigerians and is dedicated to improving the economy. “The president understands that citizens are experiencing difficulties,” he stated.

Onanuga dismissed the “T-pain” moniker as irrelevant to Tinubu’s mission, asserting that the president does not pay attention to social media. “Some people, out of mischief, simply label him as T-pain. He [Tinubu] is not T-pain,” he said.

He emphasized that while Tinubu’s policies may result in short-term hardships, they are intended to achieve long-term economic reform. “The president has never shied away from telling Nigerians that he feels their pain and is working diligently to provide relief so that conditions improve and the country can prosper,” Onanuga remarked. “We are witnessing economic growth, despite inflation; revenues have increased.”

Earlier this month, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized Tinubu, using the nickname “T-pain” to question his administration’s handling of economic hardships, particularly the rising petrol prices. Atiku stated, “It is even more worrying that T-pain is undisturbed by the hardship in the country,” attributing the current economic issues to the administration’s management of fuel subsidies.

As Nigeria grapples with inflation and economic pressures, Tinubu’s administration faces increasing public scrutiny. However, Onanuga maintained that the president remains focused on achieving long-term prosperity for the nation.