A video has sparked heavy reactions after showing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu chuckling while watching a news report.
The viral clip, circulating widely on X (formerly Twitter), showed a broadcast of Vice President Kashim Shettima arriving in Kebbi State to console families after gunmen kidnapped 25 schoolgirls.
The moment drew sharp criticism, especially as Nigerians continue to grapple with rising insecurity around all regions.
Hours before the video went viral, another school in Niger State was reportedly attacked, further intensifying concerns over student kidnappings in northern Nigeria.
While critics slammed the timing of the president’s laughter, others defended the moment, saying it was simply a lighthearted private exchange taken out of context.
A commentator wrote: “How can they be laughing while schoolgirls are being kidnapped? This is unacceptable.” Another said: “People should stop reading too much into it. It’s a private moment, not mockery.”
Others noted: “Our leaders need to show empathy. People’s children are being kidnapped in school, for God’s sake.”
The clip has triggered major conversations about leadership, leaving netizens questioning whether the government truly has sympathy for its citizens amid ongoing insecurity.