A viral courtroom video has sparked widespread reactions on social media after a suspect standing in the dock blamed Nigeria’s economic hardship under President Bola Tinubu’s administration for his alleged involvement in crime.
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In the video, the suspect, whose identity and alleged offence were not disclosed, was heard speaking in Igbo while pleading with the court for mercy.
“Please forgive me. I will not do it again. I actually have something doing; I have handwork. But it was Tinubu who caused it,” the suspect said.
His remark drew laughter from court workers and other persons seated inside the courtroom.
The video, which has since circulated widely on social media, did not show the name of the court, the presiding judge, the charge against the suspect or the outcome of the proceedings.
However, the suspect’s statement has triggered mixed reactions, with some Nigerians treating it as a humorous reflection of the country’s economic hardship, while others maintained that poverty or hardship should not be used as an excuse for crime.
Reacting on Facebook, Engr Benjamin Chukwemeka wrote, “Make una release the young man.”
Another user, Ken Ilongwo, commented, “Tinubu do this one ooo…”
Emmanuel John also wrote, “Tinubu will never forget this generation,” while Makike Stella Offor said the suspect “stated the fact” that the economy is not favourable.
Ganiyat Mojisola Bankole, however, offered a more cautious reaction, saying bad governance can contribute to crime but does not remove personal responsibility.
“Somehow he’s not entirely wrong. A bad government can precipitate crime. Nonetheless, crime is choice, he had options and he chose his path. So let him do his time,” she wrote.
Another user, Kereyak Okpo, argued that if government could grant amnesty to bandits who promise to change, the suspect should also be considered for forgiveness since he pleaded that he would not repeat the offence.
But others rejected the attempt to blame the President or the economy for alleged criminal conduct.
One Facebook user, Seun Felious, wrote, “Indeed, a thief is a thief.”
Similarly, Allen Jobbo said, “This may sound funny to almost everyone. But it is not.”
The clip has since become a subject of public debate on hardship, rising cost of living, crime and personal accountability.
While some users said the suspect’s comment reflected the desperation many Nigerians face under current economic conditions, others argued that difficult social conditions may explain pressure but cannot justify unlawful behaviour.
As of the time of this report, the suspect’s name, the court where the incident occurred, the specific charge against him and the court’s decision were not immediately known.
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