A leaked WhatsApp conversation allegedly linked to operatives of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has ignited a storm of reactions online, after screenshots suggested that some social media users were offered as little as ₦3,000 to promote posts connected to President Bola Tinubu and the party’s messaging.
The screenshots, which began circulating widely on social platforms, were first shared by Ife Salako, identified as a coordinator of the Labour Party in Lagos State. The chats appear to show individuals being directed to engage specific content mainly by quote-tweeting or amplifying government-related posts in exchange for small payments.
Alleged Drop in Payments Raises Eyebrows
One of the most talked-about aspects of the leak is the claimed reduction in compensation.
Participants in the chat allegedly referenced earlier payments of about ₦20,000 per task, contrasting them with the new ₦3,000 offer sparking jokes online that the “rate card” for political promotion had sharply declined.
The post sharing the screenshots mocked the situation, suggesting that more money was being spent boosting online visibility than addressing pressing national concerns.
Social Media Reacts With Ridicule and Criticism
The development triggered a wave of sarcasm, memes, and criticism from users, many of whom linked the controversy to Nigeria’s economic hardship, rising inflation, and the weakening purchasing power of the naira.
Commentators questioned why anyone would accept such payments, with some describing participants as desperate or exploited, while others framed the issue as evidence of attempts to manufacture online support.
Longstanding Allegations of Paid Digital Influence
Claims of political actors paying influencers or online mobilisers are not new in Nigeria.
Past reports and election-season investigations have alleged that multiple parties across the political spectrum have funded digital campaigns to shape narratives, counter criticism, or drive coordinated engagement.
However, the comparatively small sums mentioned in the current leak have intensified debate, with critics arguing it reflects waning enthusiasm, tighter funding, or a shift in strategy.
Calls for Transparency
The controversy has renewed discussions about:
- The ethics of sponsored political messaging online,
- Disclosure of paid digital advocacy, and
- Public trust in government communication.
Some observers contrasted the alleged payments with urgent national priorities such as healthcare, infrastructure, and economic relief, arguing that transparency in political communications is essential to maintaining credibility.
No Official Response Yet
At the time of reporting, neither the APC nor officials of the Tinubu administration had issued a formal statement confirming or denying the authenticity of the leaked conversations.
The episode has nonetheless added fuel to an already intense conversation about propaganda, digital political marketing, and the monetisation of influence on social media as Nigeria looks toward future electoral cycles.
