Photos of Aisha Buhari, the wife of Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, wearing a luxury watch have sparked outrage among Nigerians online. The watch, identified by Nigerian media as a Cartier Baignoire Folle 18-Carat White Gold Diamond Ladies Watch, is reported to retail at $52,000 (Sh 5,026,320).
The photos were first shared on Instagram by the First Lady's photographer, George Okoro, who stated that the main photo showing the timepiece was intended to form the first official portrait of Mrs. Buhari.
However, Aishat Alubankudi, a supporter of President Muhammadu Buhari, has denied the claims, stating that the real price of the wristwatch is only $129 (Sh12,469). This denial has not quelled the controversy, with many Nigerians taking to Twitter to express their views using the hashtag #CartierGate.
Some Twitter users, such as Stanley Nwabia (@MrStanleyNwabia), have questioned the explanation that the watch was a cheap replica, while others, like Adunni Temitoppe (@sexyadunni), have speculated that the watch could have been a gift presented to the First Lady. Olamide Oladele (@Lammydel07) joked that Aisha Buhari would have worn a different brand if she had known the attention her watch would receive.
The controversy comes after President Muhammadu Buhari's election in March, which was built on a strong anti-corruption stance. Buhari raised money from ordinary voters during his campaign and was branded the 'people's president,' making the perceived extravagance of his wife's watch all the more contentious.
