Fifteen-year-old Ifeoluwa Olaiya won Nigeria Info’s ‘I Beg to Differ’ debate tournament, securing ₦1 million. She contended President Tinubu’s leadership legitimacy, arguing against his perceived flaws. Her opponent, Esther Joseph, supported Tinubu’s economic strategies. The event showcased the intelligence of young debaters and set the stage for the upcoming Tournament of Champions.
Fifteen-year-old Ifeoluwa Olaiya from Wellspring College won Nigeria Info’s eighth edition of the ‘I Beg to Differ’ student debate tournament. Olaiya claimed the grand prize of ₦1 million after a final debate against her peer, Hameed Olarenwaju. She previously debated against 16-year-old Esther Joseph on whether President Bola Tinubu has proven to be the appropriate leader for Nigeria.
In her argument against the motion, Olaiya asserted that President Tinubu lacks widespread legitimacy among the populace, citing that many Nigerians still view his election as flawed despite the Supreme Court upholding the electoral results. She criticized his leadership role within ECOWAS, referring to regional instability and member nations opting to exit. Furthermore, Olaiya observed that the administration’s anti-corruption initiatives appeared biased, targeting opposition figures while ignoring allegations against prominent officials such as Betta Edu and Sadiya Umar Farouq.
Esther Joseph, arguing in favor of the motion, pointed to President Tinubu’s economic reforms, contrasting them with his time as governor of Lagos State. She emphasized the investments made in transportation, especially rail infrastructure, claiming that states have gained enhanced economic autonomy during his leadership.
During the final round, the participants delivered presentations focusing on “The Nigerian Woman.” In a split decision, the judges ultimately named Ifeoluwa Olaiya the tournament winner. Chalokwu Naomi placed third when her opponent, Akinsulie Oyindamola, withdrew from the contest.
Femi Obong-Daniels, Group Manager of CoolWazobiaNigeriaInfo, awarded cash prizes of ₦1 million, ₦500,000, and ₦250,000 to the top three winners, alongside additional gifts. The top four debaters are now qualified for the upcoming I Beg to Differ Tournament of Champions later this year.
Ifeoluwa Olaiya, an impressive 15-year-old debater, won the Nigeria Info’s ‘I Beg to Differ’ contest, securing ₦1 million. She effectively argued against President Tinubu’s leadership legitimacy and raised concerns about operational integrity. In contrast, her opponents presented a case supporting Tinubu’s reforms. This competitive platform highlights young voices addressing vital national issues, culminating in a challenging yet inspiring debate.
Original Source: www.nigeriainfo.fm
