Nigerian songstress Yemi Alade has once again taken a stand against governmental actions, this time directing her criticism towards the Lagos State authorities for their recent demolition spree in the Mende area of Maryland. The songbird, known for her bold stance on societal issues, utilized her social media platform to condemn the sudden eviction of residents and the destruction of properties.
In a heartfelt Instagram post on May 5, 2024, Yemi Alade articulated her dismay at the lack of consideration shown by the government towards its citizens. She lamented the abrupt displacement of families, highlighting the emotional and financial toll it takes on individuals who have invested in their homes and communities.
Over the years, she has consistently used her platform to call out the Nigerian government over its shortcomings. This recent incident adds to a string of instances where the acclaimed artist has voiced her discontent with the state of governance in the country. Here are other times she had called out the government.
October 2018
In October 2018, Yemi Alade took to Twitter to express her frustration with then-President Muhammadu Buhari, condemning the lack of infrastructure and overall neglect of the nation. She called out both major political parties, stating that they had failed the Nigerian people.
Nigeria ……. why are our leaders soooo heartless @MBuhari …… the roads are bad, hospitals are bad, education is bad. We put in our best to create jobs for the people in our industry with no support structure. Now you want us to vote?
— ✊🏾 yemialade (@yemialadee) October 11, 2018
January 2019
The following year, Yemi Alade criticized government officials who labeled Nigeria as a “hopeless country.” She urged them to step aside and make way for leaders who still harbored hope for a better future, emphasizing the need for basic amenities like good roads and education.
Top Nigerian government officials saying that Nigeria is a hopeless country. Please why do you campaign for Office? Give way to those who still have hope in a better Nigeria.
— ✊🏾 yemialade (@yemialadee) January 7, 2019
April 2020
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Yemi Alade raised questions about the transparency of relief fund allocation by the Lagos government. She demanded accountability regarding the utilization of funds intended to aid citizens during the crisis, highlighting the importance of transparency in governance.
June 2021
When President Buhari attributed attacks on infrastructure to unnamed individuals seeking to undermine his administration, Yemi Alade challenged his rhetoric. She reminded the president that his administration comprised people who felt neglected and hopeless, urging him to address the root causes of unrest.
Ah!Your administration is made up of people!People that feel neglected, unsafe,hungry,hopeless!Maybe a part of them feel you will tactically End the unrest in the nation but this tweet that focuses on administration instead of ACTUAL CITIZENS ;is an error, capital Fail. https://t.co/tGWr4pRJNS
— ✊🏾 yemialade (@yemialadee) June 2, 2021
June 2022
During the prolonged strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in 2022, which disrupted the education of thousands of students, Yemi Alade questioned the government’s handling of the situation. She voiced concerns over the prolonged closure of universities, emphasizing the impact on students’ futures.
University students are still at home …… our government which way?
— ✊🏾 yemialade (@yemialadee) June 14, 2022