Popular Nigerian rapper, Zlatan Ibile, has criticized the Nigerian government for failing to address the country’s worsening economic hardship, saying that citizens have now become accustomed to suffering as a way of life.
Speaking in a recent interview with Madame Joyce in the United Kingdom, Zlatan reacted to British rapper Dave’s viral satire about Nigeria’s stark social divide where wealthy club-goers flaunt luxury while poor beggars wait outside for handouts.
The “Zanku” crooner said the situation reflects the government’s inability to create meaningful change or provide relief to struggling citizens.
“We are used to it suffering and smiling. That’s how it has always been, and the government isn’t doing anything about it,” Zlatan lamented.
‘Some Beggars Have Turned Begging Into a Career’
Zlatan also expressed concern about what he described as the growing culture of street begging in Nigeria, noting that some beggars have turned it into a full-time occupation rather than seeking productive ventures.
“It’s sad because some of them have made begging their career. Every day, people give them money artists too yet many refuse to work or do something productive,” he said.
He went on to criticize what he called the entitlement mentality of some beggars, saying it has become “annoying” when they act as though others owe them financial support.
“They sometimes get angry when you don’t give them. It’s become an attitude, and that’s not right,” Zlatan added.
Calls for Productivity and Dignity
The award-winning artist urged Nigerians, especially street beggars and unemployed youths, to embrace hard work, creativity, and dignity rather than depending on others for survival.
“Everyone should find something productive to do. There’s dignity in labour,” he advised.
Zlatan’s remarks come amid widespread frustration over Nigeria’s rising cost of living, inflation, and unemployment, with many citizens calling for urgent government intervention to ease the burden on ordinary people.
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