A Nigerian man, identified only as Mr Nigeria101, has vowed to continue his journey of self-determined defiance by trekking from Ibadan to Abuja until his loyalty is acknowledged by President Bola Tinubu’s government. His extraordinary act, which began in December 2024, has captured public attention and sparked a widespread debate about the treatment of citizens by the current administration.
In an emotional video uploaded to his TikTok page, the man, whose journey spanned over 600 kilometers, expressed his anger and frustration at being completely ignored by the Tinubu-led government. Despite his arduous trek, he claims that no government official, not even a local councillor, has shown any interest or offered any recognition for his effort to meet the President.
“I used my legs to trek from Ibadan to Abuja since December 1, 2024, to date. Not even a councillor of a ward has attended to me to say, ‘You this guy, why did you trek from Ibadan to Abuja?’ It is unfair,” Mr Nigeria101 said in his video. “This is not something to be proud of. I am deeply disappointed in how this government has treated me.”
The Journey and the Struggle
What started as a symbolic gesture of support for the President soon turned into a bitter protest against perceived neglect and governmental indifference. With over 36,000 followers and 432,600 likes on his TikTok page, Mr Nigeria101’s journey captured the imagination of many Nigerians who were either inspired by his commitment or bewildered by his actions. As he trekked from the southwestern region to the heart of the nation’s capital, his videos depicted scenes of his struggle through both city streets and rural landscapes, occasionally stopping to rest and reflect on his journey.
In one of his posts, Mr Nigeria101 documented the emotional toll the walk had taken on him. “Every step I take is a reminder of how much I care for my country, but what does the government care about me? I am doing this for them, but no one seems to care,” he lamented.
Yet, despite the viral attention, the government’s silence on his endeavor has only fueled his frustration. Rather than receiving a warm welcome or any form of government recognition, he was left to fend for himself on his way to Abuja.
A Threat of Endless Trekking
In a recent video, Mr Nigeria101 escalated his protest, threatening to continue his journey until his demands for recognition and acknowledgment are met by the government. “See, I just started. If no government official attends to me to ask me why I embarked on this adventure, I will not rest,” he declared. “I will turn into a government liability. I will become a disturbance. I will continue to trek from one place to another till my blood will finish, till my last breath. I will not go home unless they attend to me.”
His words reflect a growing sentiment among some Nigerians who feel disconnected from a government they perceive as indifferent to the struggles and sacrifices of the common people. Mr Nigeria101’s statements suggest a deeper dissatisfaction with what he describes as a lack of empathy and support from the current administration.
A Broader Commentary on Governance
While Mr Nigeria101’s protest may seem extreme to some, it is a stark commentary on the state of governance and leadership in Nigeria. His relentless trekking symbolizes the disconnect between ordinary citizens and the political elite. Many Nigerians, especially from rural areas, have expressed similar sentiments of being forgotten by the government, despite their struggles and contributions to the country’s development.
Some political analysts have suggested that Mr Nigeria101’s protest might resonate with broader issues of leadership accountability. According to political commentator Dr. Ijeoma Obinna, “What Mr Nigeria101 is doing might seem bizarre to some, but it is a reflection of a larger issue in Nigeria—lack of recognition for the efforts of ordinary citizens who are often overlooked by those in power.”
Moreover, the frustration that has driven Mr Nigeria101 to such extremes also speaks to the wider disillusionment with political promises. A growing number of Nigerians feel that government policies and statements often fail to address the daily challenges they face, from economic hardship to inadequate infrastructure and governance.
The Silence of the Presidency
As of now, there has been no official statement from the Presidency or any government representative regarding Mr Nigeria101’s protest. His demand for recognition echoes the sentiments of many Nigerians who believe that their voices go unheard.
“Is it too much to ask to be noticed by those in power after making such a personal sacrifice?” Mr Nigeria101 questioned in a passionate appeal to the government. “I am not asking for money. I just want recognition for my support. If they refuse, I will keep trekking. I will never stop.”
Public Reaction and Online Buzz
Since Mr Nigeria101’s TikTok videos went viral, social media users have been divided. Some praise his determination and dedication to supporting the government, while others criticize the government for ignoring him. Several users have called on President Tinubu and his administration to engage with the man and offer him some form of recognition for his extreme act of patriotism.
A Twitter user, @SodiqXpress, tweeted, “If a man can walk over 600 kilometers to show support for the government, the least they can do is show him some appreciation. It’s really sad how the government ignores the very people who express loyalty in their own ways.”
On the other hand, some skeptics question the authenticity of his claims, suggesting that his journey might be a publicity stunt aimed at gaining online fame. Yet, regardless of the criticisms, Mr Nigeria101 has made it clear that he will not be deterred by the opinions of others.
