Tensions are rising in Edo State, Nigeria, after a group of youths reportedly pulled down a large billboard bearing the image of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, allegedly mounted under the influence or direction of Governor Monday Okpebholo. The incident has ignited widespread political debate, reflecting deep-seated frustrations among young people over worsening economic conditions, unemployment, and insecurity in the state and across the country.
According to eyewitness accounts circulating on social media, the youths expressed anger at what they described as a misplaced political display at a time when many Nigerians particularly young people are grappling with record-high unemployment, soaring cost of living, hunger, and insecurity. Critics argue that erecting celebratory or promotional billboards of political leaders sends the wrong message when ordinary citizens are struggling to meet basic needs.
Edo State, like many parts of Nigeria, has been severely affected by the country’s ongoing economic challenges. Youth unemployment remains alarmingly high, forcing many young people into informal work, migration, or, in some cases, vulnerability to crime. At the same time, insecurity ranging from kidnappings to armed robberies continues to hold communities hostage, undermining livelihoods and public confidence in governance.
What has further fueled public anger is the timing of the billboard. Nigeria is not officially in campaign season, and many observers see the display as an early political signal ahead of the 2027 general elections. For critics, this reinforces the perception that political elites are more focused on positioning themselves for future elections than addressing the immediate hardships facing citizens.
“This is not the time for political branding,” some Edo youths have argued online. “This is the time for jobs, security, and food.” The act of pulling down the billboard has therefore been framed by supporters as a symbolic protest, not merely vandalism, against what they view as misplaced priorities by political leaders.
Supporters of President Tinubu and the Edo State government, however, have condemned the action, describing it as unlawful and disrespectful. They argue that political expression whether through billboards or public messaging is part of democratic practice and should not be met with destruction of property. Nonetheless, even some within ruling party circles have acknowledged that the public mood is tense and that economic realities cannot be ignored.
The incident underscores a growing trend across Nigeria, where youths are increasingly vocal and confrontational in expressing dissatisfaction with governance. From protests against fuel subsidy removal to backlash over rising food prices, young Nigerians are signaling that patience is wearing thin. Analysts warn that if these frustrations are not addressed through concrete policy interventions such as job creation, security reform, and social protection political tensions could escalate further as 2027 approaches.
With the slogan “2027 go hot” already circulating, the Edo billboard episode may be an early warning sign. It reflects a politically charged atmosphere in which symbols of power are being challenged by citizens demanding accountability, economic relief, and a greater say in the country’s future. As Nigeria inches closer to the next election cycle, the message from the streets appears clear: governance, not propaganda, is what the people want.
