Prominent Nigerian social activist and comedian Debo Adebayo, widely known as Mr Macaroni, has criticized Nigerian politicians, accusing them of disregarding and disrespecting the citizens they are elected to serve. His remarks come in the wake of a viral incident involving Abia State House of Representatives member, Alexander Mascot Ikwechegh, who was caught on camera threatening a Bolt driver, warning he could “make him disappear” and lock him up. This incident, Macaroni argues, underscores a deeper problem in Nigerian governance.
Expressing his frustration on social media, Mr Macaroni pointed out that this arrogance isn’t isolated, recalling a recent incident with the FCT Minister who reportedly demeaned Nigerians by asking, “Are you stupid? Is it because I came down to talk to you?” Macaroni highlighted the troubling attitude of public officials who fail to remember that their power and privileges are granted by the people they serve. “You are a civil servant! Your duty is to serve, not to rule,” he wrote, calling for respect and humility from those in public office.
He criticized the mentality of some Nigerian politicians who treat public office as a private empire rather than a responsibility to the public, urging citizens to hold leaders accountable and remind them of their roles as servants of the people. According to Macaroni, this pattern of behavior from Nigerian officials stems from a longstanding lack of accountability and transparency, which has led to unchecked arrogance and disrespect.
The skit maker called on Nigerians to reject these attitudes and reinforce that public office is a mandate for service, not entitlement. “Nigeria is not a private entity. Politicians are not our bosses; they’re public servants. The privileges of their offices are funded by the people’s taxes and should come with humility, not arrogance,” he stated, reminding leaders that they owe their positions to those who voted them in.
Macaroni’s strong stance has resonated widely, sparking discussions on the need for Nigerian politicians to be more accountable, transparent, and respectful toward the citizens they represent.
Nigerian Politicians lack regard for Nigerians and this is because they have never been accountable to the people.
— Mr Macaroni (@mrmacaronii) October 29, 2024
The other day the FCT Minister was addressing some Nigerians and he said; “are you stupid, is it because I came down to talk to you”
You are a civil servant!!!…