Young Nigerians initially had high hopes when Muhammadu Buhari assumed office in 2015, but by the end of his tenure, many felt disappointed and disillusioned. Here are seven major reasons Nigerian youths turned their backs on Buhari:
- EndSARS and Lekki Toll Gate tragedy – Peaceful protests against police brutality ended in violence when soldiers opened fire on demonstrators in October 2020, leaving deep scars and mistrust.
- Economic hardship and rising youth unemployment – Despite promises, unemployment surged to over 42%, with two recessions and inflation worsening living conditions.
- Insensitive remarks about youths – Buhari’s 2018 “lazy Nigerian youths” comment triggered outrage, reinforcing perceptions of generational disconnect.
- Selective anti-corruption war – While some high-profile figures were prosecuted, many saw the anti-corruption fight as politically motivated.
- Failure to defeat insecurity – Boko Haram and other threats persisted, with thousands killed or displaced, contradicting official claims of victory.
- Suppression of dissent – Twitter bans, arrests of activists, and media crackdowns painted a picture of intolerance toward youth expression and protests.
- Youth political exclusion – Despite the “Not Too Young To Run” law, youths remained largely absent from decision-making positions, intensifying apathy.
