Ruto Fires Back at Tinubu, Jabs Nigeria Over Economy, English

Ruto Fires Back at Tinubu, Jabs Nigeria Over Economy, English

Kenya’s President, William Ruto, has responded sharply to comments by Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, igniting a cross-country exchange over economic conditions and national comparisons.

The back-and-forth followed remarks by Tinubu during a recent visit to Bayelsa State, where he commissioned projects and defended his administration’s policies despite public concerns over rising fuel costs.

Addressing residents, the Nigerian leader acknowledged the hardship triggered by higher petrol prices but insisted that conditions in the country were comparatively better than in some other African nations.

“It is very important that we are honest with our people… The fuel price is biting hard, but look around… you are better off. Listen to them in Kenya and other African countries and what they are going through,” Tinubu said, while promising continued efforts to ease the burden on vulnerable citizens.

But in a video that has since circulated widely online, Ruto rejected the comparison, pointing instead to Nigeria’s internal challenges, including electricity supply issues, while also taking a swipe at its use of English.

“Our education is good. Our English is good. We speak the best English in the world. If you listen to a Nigerian speak English, you’ll need a translator,” Ruto said, drawing both amusement and criticism in equal measure.

The Kenyan president’s remarks, delivered in a light but pointed tone, were seen by observers as a defence of his country’s economic standing amid growing scrutiny across Africa over inflation and cost-of-living pressures.

The exchange has since sparked reactions on social media, with users across both countries debating the merits of the claims and questioning the tone of the public remarks.

Nigeria and Kenya are grappling with economic headwinds, including rising fuel prices tied to global supply uncertainties and geopolitical tensions affecting oil routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.

While Nigeria remains one of Africa’s largest oil producers, it continues to face challenges such as inflation, currency volatility and inconsistent power supply.

Kenya, on its part, has positioned itself as a regional hub for finance and technology, though it is also contending with rising public debt and increasing living costs.

The exchange shows the sensitivity of economic narratives across the continent, particularly at a time when governments are under pressure to manage reforms and public expectations.