Outrage Erupts as Nigerian Lawmaker Gifts Daughter SUV for Secondary School Graduation

 

A storm of criticism has engulfed Yusuf Gagdi, a member of the House of Representatives from Plateau State, after he gifted his daughter, Aisha, a brand-new Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) upon her graduation from secondary school. The lavish gift has sparked widespread outrage, particularly in light of Nigeria's current economic struggles.

Details of the Controversial Gift

Reports surfaced online revealing that Gagdi presented the luxurious SUV to his daughter, who graduated from Lead British International School in Abuja. The gift was reportedly in recognition of Aisha's excellent performance in the recent Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations.

On Saturday, Gagdi shared photos from the graduation ceremony on Instagram, accompanied by a heartfelt message: “Today, I attended my amazing daughter’s graduation ceremony. Watching you, my dear daughter, walk across that stage fills my heart with immense pride and love. I celebrate your achievements and the strength you’ve shown. Here’s to a future filled with endless possibilities and happiness.”

Public Backlash and Social Media Reactions

The lawmaker’s post quickly drew ire from Nigerians on social media platforms, who criticized the extravagant gift amidst the nation's economic difficulties. Many users on X (formerly Twitter) accused Gagdi of neglecting his constituency and flaunting his wealth irresponsibly.

Sample Reactions from X Users:

• @hurabaibrahim: “If @officialEFCC are seriously fighting corruption, the source of funds of this member should have been under investigation because even the known rich businessmen in Nigeria don’t behave in this way.”
• @RukayyaBauchi: “Nigerian Politics is the most lucrative business in the whole world. Imagine a secondary school leaver driving an SUV of this nature? Oil money.”
• @johnway11145073: “He lost in his constituency. He was brought to the chamber by their court. Plateau people will shock him come 2027. We are watching.”
• @kingsley1463388: “When she graduates from the University, he will buy a private jet for her with our ‘PRAYERS’ that are being sent to his mailbox from our collective sweats.”
• @OMOONABANJOX: “Graduates are unemployed, the economic hardship is at its highest, no money no food for the poor masses, the public officials are lavishing our resources on their family and put it to our face that we cannot do anything. God will judge.”

Implications and Broader Context

The incident has ignited a broader conversation about the conduct of public officials in Nigeria and their use of public resources. Many see Gagdi’s gift as emblematic of the wider issues of corruption and mismanagement plaguing the country.

Conclusion

Yusuf Gagdi’s decision to gift his daughter a luxurious SUV has not only drawn public outrage but also highlighted the deep-seated frustrations of Nigerians regarding economic disparities and the perceived misallocation of resources by those in power. As the backlash continues, the lawmaker's actions remain a focal point of national debate.