Tony momoh buhari owes no one apology over lazy youth comment

A controversial topic!

Tony Momoh, a former Nigerian Minister of Information, sparked a heated debate when he said that President Muhammadu Buhari was right to describe Nigerian youth as "lazy" in an interview. Momoh, a respected journalist and politician, defended the President's comment, arguing that it was a reflection of the reality on the ground.

Here are some arguments for and against Momoh's stance:

Arguments for Momoh's stance:

  1. Reality check: Momoh argued that the President's comment was a reflection of the harsh economic realities faced by many Nigerian youth. He pointed out that many young people are not employed, and those who are employed often struggle to make ends meet.
  2. Lack of initiative: Momoh suggested that some Nigerian youth lack the initiative to take advantage of available opportunities, leading to a culture of dependency and laziness.
  3. Cultural factors: He attributed the perceived laziness to cultural factors, such as the emphasis on material wealth and the lack of a strong work ethic in some Nigerian communities.

Arguments against Momoh's stance:

  1. Stereotyping: Critics argued that Momoh's comments were a blanket stereotype that did not take into account the many hardworking and entrepreneurial Nigerian youth who are making a positive impact in their communities.
  2. Lack of context: They pointed out that the President's comment was made without providing any context or solutions to address the issues faced by Nigerian youth.
  3. Offensive language: Many people felt that the term "lazy" was offensive and stigmatizing, and that it did not acknowledge the structural and systemic challenges that many Nigerian youth face.

In conclusion, while Tony Momoh's stance may have been defended by some as a reflection of reality, it is important to acknowledge that the term "lazy" is a loaded one that can be perceived as offensive and stigmatizing. It is crucial to approach this issue with sensitivity and nuance, recognizing that many Nigerian youth are facing significant challenges that require support and solutions, rather than blame and criticism.