Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has invited all 109 senators to a dinner at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa. The gathering, scheduled for Friday evening, was announced on the Senate floor by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who described it as an interactive session meant to strengthen collaboration on national matters. Supporters say it is a routine political engagement designed to encourage informal dialogue between policymakers.

However, the timing of the event has stirred widespread public backlash. Many Nigerians believe the invitation feels out of touch with the country’s current struggles. The nation is grappling with a surge in school kidnappings, rising insecurity and harsh economic conditions. Critics argue that hosting senators for an elegant dinner while families are searching for missing loved ones sends the wrong message.

Public Outcry and Supporters’ Defense

Social media erupted shortly after the announcement was made. Many Nigerians questioned why government leaders would host a special gathering during such a tense period for the country. Several online users pointed out that more than two hundred Catholic school pupils in Niger State remain missing, and that citizens are still reeling from recent attacks and the growing sense of fear that has followed.

One user wrote that the timing of the dinner was “insensitive,” while another said it showed a “disconnect between those in power and the people they serve.” These concerns reflect the broader frustration Nigerians feel as insecurity grows and economic pressure continues to weigh heavily on households.

Still, some supporters argue the dinner is not a celebration but a working session. They say political leaders often rely on informal environments to discuss national challenges and that the meeting could help senators and the First Lady’s office align on priorities. According to this group, the dinner offers an opportunity to improve cooperation that might eventually benefit the public.

Akpabio, while announcing the invitation, encouraged all senators to attend. He compared the First Lady’s gesture to a mother calling her children to the table, which also triggered criticism from citizens who saw the comment as unnecessary and insensitive.

Why Many Nigerians Are Upset

Recent tragedies have intensified emotions. The country is still shaken by the abduction of students in Niger State and various attacks carried out in Kwara, Kebbi and other parts of the country. With insecurity at alarming levels, many Nigerians believe national leaders should be visibly prioritizing solutions rather than attending high-profile gatherings.

Economic hardship further fuels the frustration. Inflation continues to climb, and many families struggle to afford food, medicine and transportation. In this context, any hint of luxury or political comfort is likely to provoke strong reactions from the public.

Despite the criticism, the event is expected to take place as planned. According to the First Lady’s office, the goal is to engage lawmakers in discussion about national programs and ongoing initiatives. Whether the dinner leads to meaningful outcomes or remains a symbolic political gesture is something Nigerians will be watching closely.

For now, the invitation has become a flashpoint in the larger debate about political sensitivity, leadership priorities and the widening disconnect between public struggles and government activities.