Ben Murray Bruce, former senator representing Bayelsa East under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, has appealed to Nigerians to refrain from criticising their leaders for bad governance.

The politician made the appeal on Sunday at the Silvervird ‘Man of the Year 2024’ award to Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

“Those of you on social media, those of you who are all over the world, stop criticising Nigeria; stop criticising our leaders. Okay, we need a break. Stop criticising us. We need a break,” said Mr Bruce. 

He added, “Alright, that’s all we request. Give us a break. We’re a young human team…we make mistakes, but stop insulting our leaders and stop criticising us,” 

Accompanying Mr Oyebanji to receive the award were Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun; Minister of Works, Dave Umahi; majority leader of the Nigerian Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, amongst other politicians.

Mr Bruce’s appeal was in response to the unending criticisms of President Bola Tinubu’s harsh economic policies and the attendant hardships they have brought on Nigerians.

Recently, the National Youth Service Corps summoned Ushie Rita Uguamaye, a corps member serving in Lagos, over a viral video she posted on TikTok.

“I don’t know if there is any other president that is as terrible as you, but you are such a terrible president,” said Ms Uguamaye in a post on X.