Nigerians React as Tope Fasua Says UK Has Worse Phone Snatching Than Nigeria

Nigerians React as Tope Fasua Says UK Has Worse Phone Snatching Than Nigeria

Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Economic Affairs, Tope Fasua, has sparked widespread debate after claiming that Nigeria is now safer from phone snatching than some foreign countries, including the United Kingdom, despite ongoing public complaints about insecurity and economic hardship. He made the remarks during a members-only “Coffee Hangout” organised by the Kay Hikers Club in Abuja.

During the session, a female participant raised concerns over worsening economic conditions, particularly the rising cost of ride-hailing services and increasing cases of phone theft in Nigerian cities. She argued that many citizens are struggling to afford basic needs due to inflation and questioned the safety of commuters using transport services. She also warned that insecurity and hardship were becoming part of daily life for many Nigerians.

The participant further described how underpaid security personnel in residential areas reflect broader economic challenges, arguing that this situation exposes citizens to greater risk. She insisted that government statistics do not fully capture the reality on the ground, stressing that Nigerians are experiencing severe hardship and insecurity in their daily lives.

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In response, Fasua argued that phone snatching is not unique to Nigeria, citing examples from countries such as the United Kingdom and Cameroon. He said similar incidents occur in London and other foreign cities, suggesting that Nigeria is often unfairly portrayed in a negative light. He maintained that the country has made progress in reducing street-level crimes such as phone theft.

Fasua insisted that phone snatching is no longer a major security issue in Nigeria, adding that his personal experience suggests improved safety in many areas. He urged Nigerians not to amplify negative narratives about the country, saying such perceptions do not reflect current realities.

Another participant at the event disagreed with his position, accusing him of downplaying the severity of Nigeria’s economic and security challenges. The participant argued that citizens are facing real and daily struggles that cannot be reduced to mindset or perception, stressing that inflation, insecurity, and unemployment remain widespread issues.

Despite the pushback, Fasua maintained that individuals also have a role to play in improving their circumstances, even amid economic challenges. He argued that personal financial discipline and adjustments are necessary for survival in the current economic environment, adding that everyone can make sacrifices to cope better with hardship.

The comments have since triggered widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians debating whether the presidential aide was being realistic or disconnected from the lived experiences of ordinary citizens facing inflation, insecurity, and rising living costs.

Nigerians React as Tope Fasua Says UK Has Worse Phone Snatching Than Nigeria