It is always deeply disturbing to watch political leaders act and carry on as though Nigerians are not struggling to survive. While millions of people worry about the cost of food, transportation, electricity and rent, those in power continue to flaunt the privileges of political office, seemingly oblivious to how insulting their excesses look to the people they are supposed to serve.

The latest example came from Dayo Israel, the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Youth Leader, who recently shared a post about the distribution of the latest Toyota Prado Highlanders to some youth leaders to support their campaign efforts for President Bola Tinubu. The post attracted criticism from Nigerians, many of whom considered it insensitive in a country where economic hardship has become a daily reality.

It is difficult to understand what anyone in the ruling party expected Nigerians to feel about such a display. Pride? Excitement? Gratitude that campaign machinery is being equipped with expensive vehicles while ordinary people are struggling to afford the basics?

Perhaps the most frustrating part is that this is not simply a question of whether political parties are allowed to spend money on campaigns. Of course, they are. Political parties need resources to organise, mobilise supporters and communicate their message. The question is what these displays of privilege say about a political class that continues to ask citizens to endure economic pain. 

For a young Nigerian trying to find a job, pay transport fares or contribute to household expenses, the sight of luxury vehicles being handed out to political loyalists is not necessarily an inspiring image of youth empowerment. It can look like a reminder of how differently the country’s resources and opportunities are distributed.

A government that came to power promising renewed hope should understand that hope cannot survive on campaign slogans alone. It must be reflected in the material conditions of the people, particularly young people who are being asked to believe that their future will be better even as they struggle to navigate the present.

Dayo Israel, in his usual manner, has failed to understand the nuances of such a post. Why should billions be spent on distribution of cars when there are hospitals that don’t have MRI machines? When there are roads that need fixing and there are impoverished people who need saving? 

As the Gen Z’s will say “it’s giving classless”. No amount of money can buy a certain level of tact.  

 Nigerians are tired.