A light-hearted moment in a courtroom 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.In a viral video circulating online, the suspect, who appeared to be standing trial for an undisclosed offence, was heard speaking in Igbo language while pleading with the court for leniency.
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“Please forgive me, I will not do it again, it’s Tinubu’s fault,” the man said.
His remark drew laughter from court workers and other persons seated inside the courtroom.
The video has since generated mixed reactions on social media, with many users describing the suspect’s statement as humorous, while others insisted that hardship should not be used as an excuse for criminal conduct.
Reacting on Facebook, a user identified as Engr Benjamin Chukwemeka wrote, “Make una release the young man.”
Another user, Ken Ilongwo, commented, “Tinubu do this one ooo…”
However, other commenters faulted the suspect for attempting to shift responsibility for his alleged conduct to President Tinubu and the current economic situation in the country.
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 viral clip has continued to attract attention online, reflecting growing public conversations around economic hardship, rising cost of living and the extent to which difficult social conditions influence crime.
It has also triggered debate on personal accountability, with some Nigerians arguing that while hardship may explain desperation, it cannot justify unlawful behaviour.
As of the time of this report, the name of the suspect, the court where the incident occurred, the specific charge against him and the outcome of the proceedings were not immediately known.
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