Dr. Akin Fapohunda, Director of Research at Afenifere and Secretary General of the Atunwo Organisation, has criticized the concentration of wealth among Nigeria’s ruling elite, arguing that vast resources are in the hands of individuals who lack the vision to use them for national development. Speaking on SYMFONI TV, he lamented what he described as a growing disconnect between the wealthy class and the realities facing ordinary Nigerians.
Fapohunda pointed to a recent high-profile book launch where billions of naira were reportedly donated as an example of misplaced priorities among the country’s elite. According to him, such enormous sums could have been invested in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure to improve the lives of millions of citizens. He warned that the widening gap between the rich and the poor continues to fuel frustration and inequality across the nation.
The Afenifere chieftain called for a national conversation on wealth accumulation and accountability, insisting that public resources have effectively been privatized by a privileged few. Drawing comparisons with anti-corruption measures adopted in other countries, he urged Nigerian leaders to demonstrate greater seriousness in addressing the source of unexplained wealth and ensuring that national resources serve the collective interest of the people.
