Zainab Buba Galadima, a former Technical Assistant to Vice President Kashim Shettima, has raised concerns about the level of public support enjoyed by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying there may be a gap between political backing and acceptance among ordinary Nigerians.

According to reports that she shared her views during an appearance on Mic On Podcast, where she spoke about how political leaders relate with citizens, especially in northern Nigeria.

Galadima stated that while the president may have the backing of many state governors, that does not mean he has won over the general population.

She said that those around him could be giving him a wrong impression about his level of acceptance among the people.

She also criticised what she described as a pattern of addressing serious national issues with temporary relief efforts.

According to her explanation, there is a growing feeling among citizens that giving out food items is being treated as a solution to different kinds of problems, including security, education, and welfare challenges.

Galadima explained that her remarks are based on how many ordinary people view government actions.

She added that leaders need to understand the real needs and expectations of the population rather than rely on surface-level responses.

She said, “He might have all the governors, but he doesn’t have the masses. And maybe people around him are lying to him that he does. They think giving people rice is the solution to every problem we have. They shoot you, they give you rice. They kill you, they give you rice. They want you to go to school, they give you rice. Everything is about rice. Addressing the needs of the people requires more than surface responses. Leaders must understand what citizens are truly going through.”