Lagos State Governor, Babajide [b]Sanwo-Olu, has ignited a significant online debate due to his acquisition of a lavish Patek Philippe wristwatch, speculated to be worth around N160 million. This situation arises amidst the backdrop of economic hardship and soaring inflation affecting numerous Lagos residents and other parts of Nigeria, primarily attributed to the fuel subsidy removal.
Social commentator Feyi Fawehinmi shared an image of the opulent timepiece on Sunday, along with its price on the Chrono24 website, a platform known for wristwatch enthusiasts. The listed price for the watch on the Chrono24 website is £136,189, approximately equivalent to N160 million based on the current exchange rate of N1,170 per pound.
The reveal of this extravagant possession by the governor has generated a mixed bag of reactions from netizens. Some individuals assert that Sanwo-Olu's penchant for luxury is not a newfound revelation, while others find it inappropriate given the prevailing economic challenges.
Opinions among netizens vary:
- swag_omoluabi noted: "Lol, Sanwo-Olu has been a fashion enthusiast even before he became governor."
- princesssholly24 suggested: "What if it was a gift? Moreover, the guy can comfortably afford it since his days as commissioner in Lagos."
- heyzedfirst provided a multifaceted viewpoint: "Looks from different perspectives. It’s really hard to serve the public. If he was an artist/celebrity using the same things, we wouldn't question where they got the money. Governors get paid too! They may also have side businesses. But Naija mentality makes us think they should behave like angels. I'm not justifying them based on our expectations nor supporting them, but they are human too. Let them breathe too. Peace and unity."
- onyin emphasized: "Some of you criticizing him, if your father were in that position, I know you guys would do more than what he's doing... Leave people's fathers alone!"
- moyotheswety praised: "Nice watch, my governor. You deserve it considering the way the election went. You deserve to have two of them."
- sherriftaofeek questioned: "So because of Lagos people, he shouldn't enjoy good things? If you were in his position, would you settle for less?"
- djlahrry defended: "He works hard, he should also have assets."
- thelifeofryan expressed confusion: "I don't understand, should he wear a 5k wristwatch?"
- gurabtc argued: "Who are all these people talking rubbish? Put emotions aside. We know the country is difficult, and these people might not have done well, but did you pray for years of work to not be able to enjoy nice things?"
- chigoziedouble linked it to taxes: "He's enjoying Lagos tax payments, while people haven't received the 8k the president promised us."Governor
