Did You Come Here for Money or Food?” — Bayo Adelabu Clashes with Ibadan North Residents at Campaign

Tempers flared at a recent political rally in Ibadan North as Minister of Power and Accord Party chieftain, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, allegedly made a controversial statement that has sparked public backlash.

According to eyewitnesses and videos , during the campaign event held on Friday, tensions rose when members of the crowd began calling out for assistance, presumably in the form of food or cash a common expectation during Nigerian political rallies. In response, Adelabu was reportedly heard saying: “Did you come here to beg for money or food? Shut up!”

The comment, though unconfirmed by the minister’s media team as of press time, drew audible gasps and murmurs from the gathering and has since gone viral on social media platforms, with many Nigerians condemning the alleged statement as “insensitive,” especially in a time of worsening economic hardship.

Several residents and political observers have described the alleged comment as an affront to the dignity of the struggling masses, who expected compassion and encouragement from a public servant rather than reproach and some said that the minister his not expected to utter this kind of statement.