Renowned social commentator J.J. Omojuwa has once again sparked debate on X (formerly Twitter), shedding light on the troubling dynamics between Nigeria’s elite and its law enforcement officers.
In a thought-provoking post, Omojuwa reflected on a recent incident involving musician Damini Ogulu (aka Burna Boy) and socialite Pascal Okechukwu (known as Cubana Chief Priest). According to him, this public spat was a rare case where the poor seemed to benefit, contrasting the usual narrative where they suffer, like “the proverbial grass.”
Focusing on a viral video of a policeman caught in the crossfire of these power players, Omojuwa questioned the officer’s agency and influence in such situations. “How much power do the police have when it comes to the super-rich and powerful in our society?” he asked, pointing out how officers are often relegated to serving as “errand boys” for the elite, as frequently documented on social media.
Omojuwa argued that Nigeria must tackle systemic inequalities and power imbalances at their root. “Cosmetic moves that move no needle” won’t bring meaningful change, he asserted, emphasizing that real progress requires structural reforms.
He also defended the officer in question, calling him a “victim, not an accomplice to any crime.” Punishing the officer, Omojuwa warned, would amount to “a double act of injustice,” one that ignores the systemic exploitation that puts law enforcement in these compromising situations.
The post has ignited widespread discourse, with many Nigerians echoing Omojuwa’s call for deeper reforms in law enforcement and a reexamination of the undue influence wielded by the country’s elite.
In his words