A Nigerian nursing college's attempt to punish a student for viral anti-government chants has backfired, exposing the rising unpopularity of President Bola Tinubu's administration amid worsening economic conditions that are hitting students and poor Nigerians hardest.

The Viral Protest That Embarrassed the Government

During First Lady Remi Tinubu's visit to Delta College of Nursing Sciences on March 25, students defiantly rejected a ceremonial song proclaiming her as their "mother."

A lead singer began: "Na our mama be dis-oo, we no get anoda one" (This is our mother, we have no other). But instead of echoing the praise, the students chanted back: "Na YOUR mama be dis-oo!"* (This is YOUR mother!), making it clear they did not accept her as a figure of care.

The clip went viral, sparking widespread debate. The college initially issued a query to student Osato Edobor for posting the video to social media but was forced to retract it after public backlash.

Tinubu Government Faces Backlash Over Economic Suffering

The protest highlights growing frustration with the Tinubu administration, particularly among students and low-income Nigerians struggling with:

- Soaring food prices (inflation at 31.7%)

- Skyrocketing fuel costs after subsidy removal

- Naira devaluation, making education more expensive

- Massive student loan delays despite government promises

"How can they call her our mother when the government’s policies are starving us?" one student, who asked to remain anonymous, told journalists.

Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong condemned the college’s attempt to punish the protest:

"Instead of addressing the suffering of students, they’re issuing silly queries. The provost should be disciplined for this intimidation."

Damage Control: First Lady Downplays Incident

In a carefully worded statement, Remi Tinubu’s office dismissed the protest as a "spontaneous and playful twist." But analysts say the incident reveals deep-seated anger that can’t be easily smoothed over.

"This wasn’t just a joke—it was a political statement,"* said Lagos-based political analyst Tunde Bakare. "Students are bearing the brunt of this administration’s harsh policies, and they’re no longer afraid to show it."