This distinction between the strict legal meaning of the word and its figurative or rhetorical use is important. English speakers often use expressions such as “that was criminal negligence,” “the prices are criminal,” or “it is criminal to ignore the suffering of the poor.” In these examples, the speaker is not alleging that a crime has legally been established; rather, the word is being used as a forceful expression of moral condemnation.
The English language defines a criminal as a person who commits a crime or who has been found guilty of violating the law. Most standard dictionaries describe a criminal as someone who has engaged in conduct prohibited by law and subject to legal punishment, whether by imprisonment, bail, fines, forfeiture of property, the freezing of bank accounts, or other legal sanctions. In everyday conversation, however, the term is sometimes used more broadly or figuratively to describe conduct that is considered extremely dishonest, outrageous, deceptive, or morally unacceptable, even when it does not refer to a criminal conviction.
Similarly, in political discourse, words such as criminal, fraud, robbery, theft, or betrayal are sometimes used rhetorically to criticize public officials or government actions. Whether such language is protected political expression or amounts to unlawful defamation depends on the specific facts, the jurisdiction, and the applicable laws.
This distinction became relevant following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s official visit to Brazil in 2025. During his engagements, President Tinubu spoke positively about his administration’s efforts to address corruption, insecurity, and economic reforms in Nigeria. His remarks were intended to present Nigeria as a country making significant progress and open for international cooperation and investment.
Critics, however, strongly disputed aspects of those statements. Among the most vocal was activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore, who argued publicly that the President’s description of the situation in Nigeria did not reflect the realities experienced by many Nigerians. Sowore alleged that corruption, insecurity, and economic hardship remained serious national challenges.
As part of his criticism, Sowore described President Tinubu as “a criminal.” According to Sowore’s public position, the term was connected to what he considered deliberate falsehoods allegedly presented to Brazilian authorities and the international community. In essence, his argument was that knowingly making false representations about the condition of Nigeria amounted to what he characterized as “criminal lying,” leading him to refer to the President as a “criminal.”
Whether that interpretation is legally correct is a separate matter. Under the law, describing someone as a criminal can have significant legal consequences, particularly if the statement is alleged to be defamatory or knowingly false. For that reason, Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) initiated legal proceedings against Sowore, alleging that his statements violated applicable laws. Sowore denied the allegations and maintained that his comments were protected political speech and fair criticism of a public official. The matter became one for the courts to determine.
The controversy therefore illustrates an important principle about language. A word can possess both a legal definition and a figurative meaning. In everyday English, the word criminal may be employed metaphorically to condemn conduct that a speaker considers dishonest, deceptive, reckless, or morally unacceptable. However, when that word is directed at an identifiable individual—especially a public figure—it may carry legal implications if a court concludes that the statement is defamatory under the relevant law.
Ultimately, the debate surrounding President Tinubu’s remarks in Brazil and Omoyele Sowore’s response is not only about politics. It is also about the relationship between language, freedom of expression, reputation, and the law. Democratic societies continue to wrestle with the question of how to protect robust political criticism while also safeguarding individuals from defamatory statements. Where that line should be drawn is ultimately a question for the courts applying the law to the specific facts of each case.
it is important to understand that criminality in Nigeria extends far beyond political disagreements or the use of labels in public debate. The real challenge lies in the persistent crimes that continue to affect the daily lives of ordinary Nigerians.Across many parts of the country, reports of kidnapping for ransom, child abductions, violent attacks, armed robbery, banditry, and other forms of organized crime remain serious concerns. These crimes have caused immense suffering for countless families and communities.
At the same time, corruption continues to be one of Nigeria’s most enduring challenges. Despite successive governments promising reforms, many Nigerians believe corruption remains deeply embedded in public institutions, making accountability difficult and weakening public confidence in governance. Allegations of mismanagement of public resources, abuse of office, and lack of transparency continue to fuel public frustration and calls for stronger institutions and more effective law enforcement.
If Nigeria is to make meaningful progress, the fight against crime must be comprehensive, impartial, and firmly rooted in the rule of law. Law enforcement agencies and the justice system should prioritize the investigation and prosecution of serious criminal offenses, while ensuring that every individual is treated fairly and afforded due process. No person should be presumed guilty without evidence, and no one should be above the law because of political influence, wealth, or status.
Ultimately, reducing criminality requires more than arrests or political rhetoric. It demands effective policing, an independent judiciary, accountable institutions, economic opportunities for young people, and a sustained commitment to justice. Only by addressing both violent crime and systemic corruption can Nigeria build a safer, more secure, and more prosperous society for all its citizens.
