Can memes lead to movements? According to CorruptTok, the answer is yes. Across Africa, young people are using TikTok to take a stand against corruption, turning humour and satire into powerful tools for political activism.
What is CorrupTok?
CorruptTok is a hilarious TikTok trend in which users mimic politicians and public officials implicated in corruption scandals. With exaggerated performances, witty captions, and creative skits, participants highlight corrupt behaviours—misuse of government funds, nepotism, and lavish spending—all while using humour to express their frustrations.
The trend gained traction in mid-March 2025, starting in Nigeria before spreading across other African nations. Many videos feature public figures like Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, using satire to portray them as leaders prioritizing personal gain over national welfare. For many Africans, CorruptTok is more than just entertainment—it’s a digital protest demanding accountability.
From Viral Rants to a Nationwide Movement
In mid-March, a Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Ushie Uguamaye, went viral for openly criticizing President Tinubu and his administration. In her video, she lamented the worsening economic conditions and questioned the government’s commitment to its people. However, she soon faced backlash, including alleged threats from NYSC officials for speaking out. Her message struck a chord with many Nigerians, leading to an outpouring of support. While some criticized her for disrespecting the government, a larger number rallied behind her, echoing her frustrations.
Uguamaye’s statement in her video resonated deeply: “If a lot of Nigerians come out and start speaking about what we are going through, maybe changes will be made in the government. I just want to say to our president, I don’t know if there is any other president who is as terrible as you, but you are such a terrible president.”
This bold declaration sparked a digital movement—the #30DaysRantChallenge—a social media campaign where Nigerians voice their frustrations over escalating economic hardships and governmental failures. In solidarity with Uguamaye, citizens on X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram began sharing personal stories of struggles and holding the government accountable.
The Power of Digital Protest
The #30DaysRantChallenge and CorruptTok show the increasing influence of social media in African political discourse. These digital movements provide a space where citizens can express their grievances without the fear of traditional media censorship. By blending humour with activism, young Africans are reshaping political engagement, proving that satire can be just as powerful as street protests.
In a time where governments often try to suppress dissent, trends like CorruptTok and the #30DaysRantChallenge show the resilience of African youth. By turning frustration into creative resistance, they’re not just calling out corruption—they’re demanding change.