A recent statement by Presidential Aide Bayo Onanuga that President Bola Tinubu “took bullets for Nigerians” has triggered widespread discussion and pushback across social media and political circles. The comment, made during a media engagement this week, was intended to defend the administration’s policies and highlight the President’s commitment, but it quickly drew a wave of pointed questions from citizens, with many asking: “How many cans?”
Onanuga, who serves as Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, made the remark while addressing criticism of the government’s economic reforms. He argued that President Tinubu has made difficult and politically costly decisions for the sake of national stability. “The President took bullets for Nigerians,” Onanuga said, suggesting that Tinubu absorbed public anger and political risk to implement reforms he believes are necessary for long-term growth.
The phrase spread rapidly online, where Nigerians repurposed it into memes, commentary, and satire. The retort “How many cans?” emerged as a common reply, playing on the word “bullets” to question the substance behind the claim. For many critics, the phrase was used to demand specifics: what sacrifices, what risks, and what tangible benefits have citizens seen? Users pointed to ongoing challenges such as inflation, fuel price adjustments, and currency fluctuations as reasons for skepticism.
Supporters of the administration pushed back, saying the metaphor reflects the political backlash Tinubu faced after removing fuel subsidies and unifying the exchange rate. They argue that those policies, while unpopular in the short term, were aimed at correcting structural problems in the economy. “Taking bullets means taking the hits so the country can heal,” one supporter wrote on X. “Reforms are painful, but necessary.”
Opposition voices and civil society groups said the language downplays the daily struggles of ordinary Nigerians. They noted that citizens have faced rising living costs and that many feel they are the ones bearing the brunt of policy changes. “If anyone is taking bullets, it’s the masses,” said a Lagos-based activist. “We need accountability, not metaphors.”
Political analysts say the exchange highlights a wider communication gap between the government and the public. Metaphors intended to convey resolve can land differently when citizens are dealing with economic pressure. The phrase “took bullets” is not new in Nigerian political discourse, but its reception shows how sensitive messaging has become in the current climate.
The Presidency has not issued a follow-up clarification as of press time. Onanuga maintained in a later post that his point was about leadership and sacrifice, not literal events….See More
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