Before you criticize Lagos, ask yourself, what is your own state doing? – reality TV star, Tacha, tackles critics of Lagos state

Reality TV star and media personality Tacha Akide has sparked fresh conversations online after calling out Nigerians who constantly criticise Lagos State, describing the city as a victim of Nigeria’s broader governance failures rather than the problem itself.

In a viral video shared on social media, Tacha questioned why Lagos is often singled out for issues like congestion, dirt, and overpopulation, while other states escape scrutiny.

“Every day I hear people say Lagos is dirty, Lagos is smelling, Lagos is full of beggars — and I laugh,” she said. “Lagos is not the problem. Lagos is the symptom.”

“Lagos Is Carrying the Weight of Nigeria”

According to Tacha, Lagos is overwhelmed because millions of Nigerians migrate there in search of better opportunities that their home states fail to provide.

She pointed out that over 20 million Nigerians currently live in Lagos, stressing that managing such a population is no small task.

“We have 36 states in Nigeria, yet Lagos is carrying the weight of the whole country,” she said. “Not Japanese people — Nigerians. Have you tried to manage Nigerians before? Try it first.”

Governors, Not Lagos, Should Be Questioned

Tacha placed the blame squarely on underperforming state governments, accusing many governors of failing to create jobs, infrastructure, or viable economies in their states.

“Governors sit in their offices for eight years — no jobs, no infrastructure, no nightlife, no economy. Absolutely nothing,” she said. “And they don’t get judged for it.”

She argued that this lack of development forces citizens to migrate to Lagos, increasing pressure on the city’s infrastructure and resources.

“If Other States Tried, Lagos Would Breathe”

The reality star concluded by stating that Lagos would be less overwhelmed if other states did even half of what Lagos is doing.

“If about 10 to 15 states were doing half of what Lagos is doing, the pressure on Lagos would reduce drastically,” she said. “But every other state in Nigeria is sleeping.”

Tacha’s comments have since divided social media, with many agreeing that Lagos bears the burden of national failure, while others insist the state must still address its internal challenges.

One thing is clear: her remarks have reignited a long-standing debate about governance, migration, and accountability in Nigeria.