Controversy Surrounds Ex-Ondo First Lady’s “Zoo Country” Remark
Mrs. Betty Akeredolu, the widow of former Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, has sparked outrage with a recent social media post where she referred to Nigeria as a “zoo country that is beyond redemption.” The comment was made on her X account (formerly Twitter) while comparing the country’s electoral process to that of the United States.
Akeredolu highlighted the differences in vote counting between the two countries, stating that Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election took five days to count, whereas the 2024 U.S. presidential election took approximately 10 hours to count. She concluded by saying, “Moral: When dishonesty is prioritised, simple things become difficult.”
The post received a mixed reaction, with some users defending Akeredolu’s statement while others strongly condemned it. One user, Paulexy, commented, “Truth is indeed bitter. I can understand the attacks on her. We are doomed in this country Nigeria.” This prompted Akeredolu to respond, “Very bitter indeed! Who will rescue Nigeria? What a zoo country.”
Akeredolu’s remark sparked a fierce backlash, with many users accusing her of disrespect, insensitivity, and tribalism. She was labelled a “bigot” and “ingrate” by some netizens who saw her comment as inflammatory.
Some users expressed their disappointment and outrage in response to Akeredolu’s comment. Okikiolu John wrote, “From the wife of a former governor o. Hmmm. Speaks volumes about character.” Others, like @CitizenOlu, accused her of being a “tribalistic bigot” who benefited from the country she criticized.
Iyo Obietonbara wrote, “Referring to Nigeria as a zoo country is not only inaccurate but also insulting. It’s a reflection of one’s character and shows a lack of gratitude for the opportunities one has received.” Khone added, “You are just embarrassing yourself and your late husband. You are a beneficiary of a failed system.”
Others, like Diekololaoluwa, criticized Akeredolu for dragging her late husband’s name into the mud and disrespecting his memory with her comments. Director Lẹykìí wrote, “Zoo country? Same country your husband was SAN, NBA President, and went on to be Governor for close to 8yrs. This was ‘below the belt’ for a country that made you.”
Adoskol World concluded, “Madam, you tweet to dishonour and discredit your husband’s good deeds. History will not be kind to you.”
