President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has come under fire after being seen wearing a luxury Patek Philippe wristwatch during a recent meeting with Tunde Onakoya, the Nigerian chess sensation who recently broke the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon.
The high-end timepiece, reportedly valued at $61,280 (approximately ₦94.1 million at the current exchange rate), has stirred controversy, especially as the country faces widespread economic challenges.
Many Nigerians took to social media to express frustration over what they perceive as an insensitive display of wealth. Critics argued that such extravagance is ill-timed given the nation’s economic situation.
One commentator, Aghedo, wrote: “President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Money don too dey this country.”
Another user, Olasunkanmi, added: “Tinubu no be small man. For am, money be like water.”
Bamigbelu Olu questioned the watch’s authenticity, saying: “This one wey resemble ₦750 aboki watch?”
Clear Waters echoed a similar sentiment: “Money na water.”
The incident has amplified ongoing concerns about leadership priorities and the growing gap between the ruling class and everyday Nigerians.