Nigerian chess champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, has found himself at the center of criticism following his recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu.
The encounter, during which Onakoya presented a special edition gold-plated Adire chess set to the president, has sparked widespread criticism and polarized opinions across the country.
Onakoya, celebrated for his Guinness World Record-breaking 60-hour chess marathon and his efforts to empower underprivileged children through chess, met with Tinubu at the president’s Lagos residence on June 9.
The meeting was highlighted by Tinubu’s public praise of Onakoya’s work, with the president expressing support for expanding the Chess in Slums initiative nationwide.
However, the association with Tinubu, whose administration has faced scrutiny over economic challenges and poverty, has led to a backlash from some Nigerians.
Critics argue that Onakoya’s meeting with the president undermines the integrity of his grassroots movement. Social media platforms, particularly X, have been flooded with comments accusing him of aligning with a government they believe perpetuates the very slum conditions his organization seeks to address.
One sentiment suggests that Onakoya’s visit could be perceived as an endorsement of Tinubu’s leadership, diluting the moral clarity that has defined Chess in Slums.
Others have speculated that the meeting might be a strategic move by the administration to co-opt Onakoya’s influence for political gain.
Defenders of Onakoya, however, emphasize his track record of transparency and dedication to uplifting vulnerable children.
They view the meeting as a potential opportunity to secure governmental support for his cause, arguing that collaboration could amplify the reach of his initiative. Supporters point to his consistent focus on education and empowerment, urging critics to separate his humanitarian efforts from political affiliations.
The controversy reflects broader frustrations among Nigerians regarding leadership and social inequality. Onakoya’s rise from the slums of Ikorodu to global recognition has made him a symbol of hope, but his engagement with Tinubu has ignited raw anger over systemic failures.
As the debate intensifies, opinions remain sharply divided, with some lauding his strategic outreach while others see it as a betrayal of his roots.
