A post by tech billionaire Elon Musk on X (formerly Twitter) has stirred strong reactions among Nigerian users after many misunderstood his use of the term “APC.”
Musk, CEO of Tesla, on Sunday described his futuristic electric vehicle, the Cybertruck, writing: “Cybertruck is an APC from the future.”
The post quickly went viral, but it caused confusion in Nigeria, where “APC” is widely known as the abbreviation for the ruling All Progressives Congress, the party that produced President Bola Tinubu.
Many Nigerians reacted as if Musk was referring to the political party, not the military term ‘Armoured Personnel Carrier,’ which the Cybertruck is often compared to.
The comment section was filled with mixed reactions, with many users expressing confusion, concern, and humour over the wording.
One user asked directly, “Which APC are you referring to, sir?”
Another user who identifies as First Principles said, “You might want to skip that abbreviation, Elon. In Nigeria, “APC” represents a political party that has brought years of hardship, insecurity, and hunger to millions. It’s a trigger for a lot of pain here.”
“Please find a synonym for the word APC because APC is the greatest nightmare in Nigeria, don’t let Nigerians start boycotting Tesla (sic),” one user identified as Dhamilarey said.
“My heart first drop go my belle. Elon, please don’t give me a jump scare like this again (sic),” one Prom Prom wrote.
Another user, Aanuoluwapo Sukoto, said, “As a Nigerian, seeing ‘APC from the future’ hit different. But this Cybertruck sounds like the real armored beast we need, indestructible, all-terrain luxury that vibes through rainbows and tough roads. The future is here, and Nigeria is ready for it!”
“Please write that APC in full abeg, before this guys will use it and run agenda,” a user wrote.
“Anything APC gives us PTSD in Nigeria. We have been traumatized by that acronym,” one Tamunotonye tweeted.
Clarifying the meaning, Dr Ose Etoobhio said, “APC means Armoured Personnel Carrier… like those armoured tanks!”
Internet personality Daniel Regha also added, “APC, meaning it takes the design and partial functionality of a military armored vehicle. It’s almost like a replica, but not quite, I presume.”
