₦3.9 Trillion For Lagos, ₦3.5 Trillion For 18 States: Mahdi Shehu Roasts Nigeria’s Democracy

Renowned social critic, Mahdi Shehu, has set off a storm of debate after lambasting Nigeria’s democratic system, accusing it of shameless inequality, nepotism, and deliberate exclusion of the majority.

In a fiery post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Shehu drew parallels between Nigeria’s governance and George Orwell’s Animal Farm:

> “Even in the bush, some animals are more equal than others. In Africa’s brand of democracy, those whose mothers are in charge of the kitchen never go hungry — they get the bigger portion and even takeaways. When their father controls the Asusu (purse), they never lack money. They get more than they need and save for rainy days.”

His comments came on the heels of a report by Daily Trust, which revealed a shocking disparity in revenue allocations. According to the data, 18 northern states combined received ₦3.5 trillion, while Lagos State alone got ₦3.9 trillion — more than the entire bloc put together.

Shehu argued that such figures perfectly illustrate Africa’s “democracy of inequality,” where the elite and their families never go hungry while millions are condemned to perpetual deprivation.

> “The orphans in democracy are those without fathers, mothers, or uncles in government. They are hated by their neighbors, despised by themselves, and remain hopelessly divided,” he said.

Describing the system as “democracy by force, by exclusion, by hate, by tricks, and by shamelessness,” Shehu delivered a final sting:

> “If foolish people have foolish and selfish leaders presiding over them — whether by force or by choice — and they remain happy and clapping, it only means they are truly well represented.”
With Lagos State reportedly outpacing 18 northern states in federal allocations, Shehu’s explosive remarks have reignited questions about fairness, equity, and the true meaning of democracy in Nigeria.