Your only achievement is covering up crimes – Seun Kuti blasts Tinubu

Afrobeat singer and activist Seun Kuti has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of prioritizing the protection of Nigeria’s political elite over addressing the nation’s economic and social challenges.

In a strongly worded video statement, Kuti claimed that President Tinubu’s economic policies—which have drawn widespread criticism for worsening poverty—were not aimed at reforming the country but rather designed to shield corrupt elites from accountability.

“The only thing this President has done is cover up crimes upon crimes,” Kuti alleged. “To do that, he needed a kind of bravery rooted in wickedness. He impoverished millions of Nigerians just to protect the political class.”

The Grammy-nominated artist also took aim at Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, accusing him of defending the political establishment during a recent media chat where Wike expressed concern over the growing opposition coalition. Kuti suggested Wike’s remarks revealed frustration with politicians who, in his view, were ungrateful for Tinubu’s efforts to “protect” the ruling elite.

“Wike said that during Rotimi Amaechi’s tenure as Rivers State governor, his wife was receiving N4 billion monthly. I only wish he told us how long that lasted,” Kuti said. “Wike and others supporting Tinubu are not fighting for Nigerians—they’re fighting for the status quo.”

Kuti criticized Wike for downplaying the opposition’s efforts to challenge entrenched power structures, saying his comments reflect fear that reforms might disrupt a system that benefits the political class.

“Nigerians must understand,” Kuti added, “when they say the President is making tough decisions, it’s not to protect you—it’s to protect themselves.”