As Nigeria continues to grapple with rising living costs, insecurity, unemployment, and growing public dissatisfaction, outspoken public affairs commentator Victor Orhorhoro has remained one of the government's most vocal critics. In this exclusive interview with De.Reportorial, he shares his views on President Bola Tinubu's administration, the state of the economy, security challenges, unemployment, and the widening trust gap between Nigerians and their leaders. While some of his opinions are controversial, Orhorhoro argues that they reflect the frustrations of millions of citizens struggling with the realities of daily life.
De.Reportorial: You're one of the most vocal critics of the federal government, particularly of President Bola Tinubu. Many people have described your comments as unusually harsh. Why is that?
Victor Orhorhoro: The situation facing ordinary Nigerians is harsh. If people's lives were improving—if communities felt safer, if young people had opportunities, and if families could afford basic necessities—there would be less reason for criticism. What we are witnessing today is a country where millions of citizens are simultaneously struggling with economic hardship, insecurity, and a deep loss of confidence in public institutions. Were you expecting me to sound nice about a president with questions surrounding drug dealings in Chicago?
Have you ever considered what our people went through in South Africa, the Xenophobia act going on there where South Africans are saying we're drug addicts partly because it's public knowledge that our President has drug related offences on him.
A man whose educational credentials are in doubt? A person whose parentage is unclear? Harshness is the only appropriate response.
De.Reportorial: That’s a serious assessment. Where do you think the government has fallen short?
Victor Orhorhoro: The failures are interconnected. High unemployment and limited economic opportunities lead to growing frustration. As frustration increases, social tensions rise. When social tensions escalate, insecurity often becomes more difficult to manage. These problems do not exist in isolation. A government that fails to create opportunities for its citizens eventually faces the consequences of widespread despair and disillusionment.
De.Reportorial: Are you suggesting that joblessness contributes directly to insecurity
Victor Orhorhoro: It would be unrealistic to ignore that connection. Not every unemployed person becomes involved in crime or violence—far from it. Most Nigerians are hardworking and law-abiding individuals. However, when large numbers of young people see no realistic path to employment, advancement, or financial stability, criminal networks and extremist groups find it easier to recruit vulnerable individuals. Economic hopelessness creates an environment that allows bad actors to thrive.
De.Reportorial: Security officials would argue that they are working tirelessly to address these threats.
Victor Orhorhoro: I do not doubt that many security personnel are making sacrifices. The issue is whether the overall strategy is producing the results citizens need. People continue to hear reports of attacks, kidnappings, armed robberies, and violence in various parts of the country. Farmers fear going to their fields, travelers worry about road safety, and parents are concerned for their children. Security should not be a luxury enjoyed by a few; it should be a guarantee for everyone.
De.Reportorial: The government insists that reforms take time and that progress is being made.
Victor Orhorhoro: Every government claims that progress is underway. However, citizens evaluate governments not by press conferences but by their lived experiences. The questions are simple: Are people safer than before? Are they finding jobs more easily? Can they afford food, housing, transportation, and education? If the answers are not convincing, officials should expect criticism.
De.Reportorial: You've also questioned the quality of political leadership in the country. What do you mean by that?
Victor Orhorhoro: Leadership is ultimately about character, competence, and accountability. Citizens want leaders who demonstrate integrity, communicate honestly, and prioritize the public interest above personal ambition. Unfortunately, many Nigerians have become skeptical because they have repeatedly seen politicians make grand promises during campaigns only to struggle to fulfill them once in office.
De.Reportorial: Some would say that’s an unfair generalization.
Victor Orhorhoro: Perhaps. There are undoubtedly public servants who work diligently and sincerely. However, the broader perception problem exists for a reason. Too often, political office seems to be treated as a reward rather than a responsibility. Too often, citizens hear explanations instead of solutions. Too often, leaders appear disconnected from the realities facing ordinary people.
De.Reportorial: How has that affected public trust?
Victor Orhorhoro: Public trust has been severely damaged. When people believe that leaders are not being transparent, confidence erodes. When they witness corruption scandals, confidence erodes. When promises are repeatedly broken, confidence erodes. Trust is essential for a functional relationship between a government and its citizens.
