SNOW TV NEWS DESK
Nigerians have criticized and questioned the circumstances surrounding a cash distribution by the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, after videos showing her handing out bundles of ₦100,000 to women at an event surfaced online.
The footage, which has since generated heated discussions on social media, particularly X, has left many Nigerians asking why the money was being distributed, where the funds came from, and whether the exercise was part of an official women’s empowerment program.
Although the purpose of the gathering was not immediately clear from the circulating videos, the cash distribution has sparked controversy at a time when many Nigerians are struggling with rising food prices, unemployment, poor healthcare, and the increasing cost of living.
Some critics questioned the government’s priorities, arguing that public officials should focus more on providing essential services and creating sustainable opportunities rather than distributing cash without clearly explaining the objectives and long-term impact.
One X user, @JustineTy, described the gesture as “weaponizing poverty,” suggesting that handing out money to economically vulnerable citizens could raise concerns, particularly when similar activities are viewed against the country’s political climate.
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Another user, @bigforceX, expressed frustration over what he considered misplaced priorities, writing, “There is no money for ambulance, subsidy, 24/7 power, healthcare, security, and education. But there is money for election, selection, vote buying, and rigging.”
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Similarly, @Relalamaka questioned the source and purpose of the money, asking, “Where all this money comes from? What’s the reason for this?”
However, not everyone condemned the minister’s actions. Some Nigerians acknowledged that direct financial assistance could provide immediate relief to women facing economic difficulties but insisted that genuine empowerment should go beyond sharing cash.
One commenter, @ZWrites, argued that women needed sustainable opportunities to become financially independent rather than relying on occasional handouts.
“Giving women money is good, but what is the long-term plan? Empowerment should go beyond sharing cash. Women need opportunities to become financially independent,” the user wrote.
Another social media user advised beneficiaries to accept the money without allowing it to influence their political decisions, writing: “Collect the money and boycott her in the election.”
The controversy has also renewed conversations about accountability in government-funded empowerment programs, particularly the need for transparency regarding funding sources, beneficiary selection, and measurable outcomes.
While cash assistance can offer immediate support to struggling households, Nigerians increasingly want to see programs that create lasting economic opportunities through skills acquisition, access to affordable loans, education, and business support.
As the video continues to attract attention, questions remain about the source of the money, the purpose of the distribution, and whether it was connected to an official government intervention.
As of the time of filing this report, the minister had not publicly addressed the controversy surrounding the viral footage.
“Sir Bartholomew White Ebe is a Lagos-based media personality, Music Artist, Producer, and a Relationship Coach and independent journalist. With over seven years of experience tracking political developments and cultural shifts in Nigeria, he specializes in local current affairs, grassroots politics, and community-driven reporting across Lagos State. As the founder and chief editor of Snow Multimedia Connect {SNOW TV}, he leads the editorial team to deliver verified, high-impact stories to digital audiences.”
Email: snowmediaconnect@gmail.com
