Nepotism
Noun [U]
The act of using your power or influence to get good jobs or unfair advantages for members of your own family.
The discussion surrounding nepotism frequently surfaces in Nigerian internet forums and subcultures at least once a month. This recurring conversation can be attributed to the country’s struggling economy and the occasional need to remind ourselves that, at least for some, things are not so dire. Alternatively, it may reflect our collective tendency to seek justification for our suffering—a glimmer of hope in our poverty-stricken lives. Since better days are not yet here, many live vicariously through those who seem better off.
Regardless of the reason, this ongoing conversation has sparked widespread distaste and disgust among observers who witness the advantages of influence but cannot benefit from them. It has led people, who will never experience such prosperity, to scrutinize the lives of those they will never meet. But can we truly blame them?
@mofedidit Like you are outhear selling a lifestyle to us that is derived from years of your parents theft and embezzlement #nepobaby #nigerian ♬ original sound – Mofe says Hi
In 2023, Nigeria’s poverty rate was estimated to be 38.9%, with approximately 87 million Nigerians living below the poverty line. According to Transparency International’s 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index, Nigeria is ranked 145th out of 180 countries for corruption. From 1996 to 2023, Nigeria’s average corruption rank was 126.36. The 2003 Nigeria Survey and Corruption Survey Study identified certain institutions with the highest levels of corruption. Additionally, superficial reports indicate blatant mismanagement of government funds, which undermines public trust.
Everyone thinks the whole nepo baby thing is about their parents literally lining them up with a job, but it's about knowing you can take risks and really go for it because your family can help you out financially if it all goes wrong. It's about even feeling like you can try. https://t.co/0ArzOZc9jH
— Joz Norris (@JozNorris) September 16, 2024
These factors contribute to the understandable grievances Nigerians have towards the children or associates of the ruling class. Public anger is often triggered by the combination of false humility and ostentatious displays of wealth. On one hand, it may seem impossible for these individuals to satisfy public expectations. On the other hand, this reaction represents a natural response to witnessing others exploit lopsided privileges.
No one:
— Usagi (@JORMUNGAND_rr) September 16, 2024
Nigerian nepo babies abroad:, pic.twitter.com/AHup5TJjPO
One could argue that it is unfair to expect goodness from those who benefit from nepotism. However, the existence of unfair advantages is not their fault. These issues are secondary to the larger, systemic problems facing the country. The strain caused by ‘politician kids’ and their endless nepotism—along with the financial allowances and freedom to pursue their desires—illustrates the broader impact of corruption on ordinary people’s lives.
The lack of self-awareness is JARRING. Do you not know who your father is??!!!
— Dr. Dream Girl🦋 (@AimaMoh) April 9, 2023
You political nepo babies are getting a little too bold on this app for children of people who would've been beheaded in saner climes. You of all people should be hiding your face in shame. https://t.co/VTjMbrPr7o
Transparency is lacking at many levels of power in Nigeria. This highlights the need for self-reflection: our own morals have not been tested, and if faced with similar circumstances, we might behave as vainly and ‘evil’ as those we condemn.
You see the way Amy Okoli is shining teeth there, na so me too go shine teeth when I catch my own Nepo-baby friend 😭 https://t.co/MMhphq2hJl
— Mark (@Marknit0) August 21, 2024
It would be somewhat dishonest to shift the responsibility for fixing the country’s problems from those who created the wreckage to those who are suffering beneath it. Ultimately, individuals must take responsibility for their own actions and work to improve their circumstances.
