“Borrowing Bombshell: Melaye Slams Tinubu’s ₦158T Debt, Sparks Outrage Over Nigeria’s Rising Loans!”

Buhari With Subsidy Borrowed 83T In 8yrs While Tinubu Without Subsidy Borrowed 158T In 3yrs- Melaye

Nigeria’s debt conversation has taken a dramatic turn after former senator Dino Melaye dropped a bombshell comparison that is now shaking political circles nationwide.

In a strongly worded statement, Melaye contrasted the borrowing records of former President Muhammadu Buhari and current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—raising serious questions about the country’s fiscal direction.

According to him, Nigeria borrowed about ₦83 trillion in eight years under Buhari, despite maintaining fuel subsidy, while the current administration has allegedly borrowed a staggering ₦158 trillion in just three years—without subsidy.

His blunt verdict?

“We have become a chartered borrowing nation. Where is the borrowed money?”

The statement has since gone viral, igniting heated debates across social media and political platforms, with Nigerians divided over the accuracy, implications, and motives behind the claim.

Critics of the current administration argue that the figures, if accurate, signal an alarming acceleration in national debt, especially at a time when citizens are grappling with economic hardship, inflation, and rising living costs.

Supporters, however, insist that borrowing is sometimes necessary for infrastructure development and economic reforms—especially following major policy shifts like the removal of fuel subsidy.

Economic analysts say the real issue may not just be borrowing itself, but transparency, accountability, and measurable impact. Many Nigerians are now demanding clearer explanations on how borrowed funds are being utilized and whether they are translating into tangible development.

The controversy also highlights a deeper concern:

Is Nigeria borrowing for growth—or merely surviving on loans?

As the debate intensifies, one thing is certain—Melaye’s statement has reopened a critical national conversation about debt sustainability, governance, and the future of Africa’s largest economy.

With 2027 elections on the horizon, fiscal management may now become one of the defining issues shaping political narratives and voter decisions.