“Other Women Shouldn’t Aspire to Be First Lady; They Should Just Go and Sell Akara” - Rufai Oseni Reacts to Remi Tinubu’s Remarks

Journalist and Arise Television presenter Rufai Oseni has stirred fresh debate after reacting to First Lady Remi Tinubu’s recent comments encouraging Nigerians to embrace small-scale businesses such as selling akara and kuli-kuli as a means of self empowerment. 

Speaking on The Morning Show on Arise Television, Oseni criticized the First Lady’s remarks, arguing that they had triggered widespread backlash among Nigerians already grappling with economic hardship. Commenting on the public reaction, the broadcaster said, “Other women can get cars. Other ladies should not even aspire to be First Lady like her. They should just go and sell akara.”

His remarks were a direct response to the First Lady’s message, which encouraged women and young people to consider small businesses like frying Akara and selling Kuli Kuli as a means of achieving financial independence.

Since the comments were made, they have generated mixed reactions across social media and beyond. Supporters of the First Lady argued that there is dignity in honest work. Critics, however, contended that the advice failed to address the deeper economic realities confronting many Nigerians.

Oseni’s response has further amplified the conversation, with many Nigerians weighing in on whether the First Lady’s message reflects the realities faced by ordinary citizens.