Nigerian music superstar Asake (real name Ahmed Ololade) is facing significant social media criticism following the release of his fourth studio album M$NEY, after some listeners interpreted a lyric in the track ‘Amen’ as endorsing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The controversial line, “Presido sope emi lokan, e dey win election,” references President Tinubu’s popular 2023 campaign phrase “Emi Lokan” (It is my turn). In the song, Asake uses the reference while reflecting on the power of spoken words and manifestation.
The lyric has divided public opinion, with many users on X (formerly Twitter) accusing the artist of insensitivity amid ongoing economic challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians. Several fans expressed disappointment, with some threatening to boycott the album.
Critics on social media stated: “With everything wey dey happen for Nigeria, Asake still get mind praise Tinubu for him album...” Others claimed the reference contributed to the album’s reception, describing it as tone-deaf given current national realities.
However, a section of fans and commentators defended the artist, arguing that the line was taken out of context and merely served as an example of manifestation and determination, not a political endorsement.
“He only used Tinubu as an example of speaking something into existence. People are overreacting honestly,” one user posted.
The album M$NEY, which contains 13 tracks, was released on Friday, April 2026 (May 1 according to some reports), and has generated widespread online discussions. While the project has enjoyed significant streaming numbers typical of Asake’s releases, the political reference has dominated conversations around it.
Asake, popularly known as “Mr. Money” and “Lungu Boy,” is yet to issue an official statement regarding the backlash. The artist has built a massive fan base with his unique fusion of Fuji, Afrobeats, and Amapiano sounds, and remains one of Nigeria’s most successful contemporary musicians.