Bettagate: Daddy Freeze Questions Youth Leadership Abilities in Nigeria

By Iyojo Ameh

In a recent Instagram live session, prominent media figure Daddy Freeze shared his controversial stance on the suitability of Nigerian youths to lead the nation. The discussion came in the wake of Dr.

Betta Edu’s suspension due to allegations of fraud.

Freeze argued that the older generation of politicians, despite their perceived corruption, should remain in power rather than passing the leadership baton to younger individuals.

He attributed Minister Edu’s involvement in alleged corruption to a lack of experience within a short period.

Expressing his views, Freeze noted that, the older politicians’ purported better understanding of the systems in place.

He criticized the potential mishandling of the system by youths if they were to assume power. He was quoted saying, “I’d rather have an experienced older individual comprehend the system than a young person who might recklessly exploit it.”

The media personality further reinforced his preference for seasoned politicians like Tinubu, Atiku, or Obi over youths, indicating a belief that some youths lack a moral compass.

“I don’t want youths to lead Nigeria,” he stated unequivocally. “I would rather have an old thief that understands the system than a young thief that would just steal the system senselessly.” Freeze cited Edu’s case, remarking on the swift capture of alleged wrongdoing within a short period since her assumption of the ministerial position.

He underscored the age disparity, emphasizing, “Someone who isn’t 40 yet, I’m 10 years older than her [Betta Edu]. She is a proper youth.” Freeze’s perspective challenged the popular notion of promoting youth leadership, favoring the experience of older political figures despite their controversies.

Also, Freeze cast doubt on the ethical foundation of Nigerian youths, suggesting a deficiency in conscience among some. His statements added fuel to the ongoing discourse about the aptitude of the younger generation to steer Nigeria towards progress and ethical governance.