I have closely followed people’s views and reactions on the current tariff war. One of the most interesting ones is a friend who posted on WhatsApp and passionately but ignorantly stated that we should support President Trump’s tariff regime and that any right-thinking person would know that it is the right thing to do. Ironically, this my friend in lives in Nigeria. Another associate went even further, arguing that Trump’s trade policies are a gift to the world.
I chose not to get involved openly in their conversation—not out of courtesy, but exhaustion. And because of their pedigree in fields not related to economics, finance or management, I concluded that what they are exhibiting is intellectual arrogance dressed up as global insight. Because how exactly does the imposition of tariffs on foreign goods become a win—for anyone?
There’s an African proverb that says: When two elephants fight, it’s the grass that suffers. Let’s be clear: in any trade war, that grass will be the working class, middle class, and small business owners.
While the rhetoric may sound patriotic, the real outcome is far from heroic. The capitalist class will adapt or relocate. Politicians—especially in countries plagued by corruption—will shield themselves. But the people? The people will feel it in their wallets, their classrooms, and their clinics.
I love history; therefore, permit me to revisit the history books. In the 1930s, the Smoot- Hawley Tariff Act was passed by the U.S. to “protect” American jobs during the Great Depression. It backfired spectacularly. Other countries retaliated, global trade collapsed by over 60%, and the world slipped deeper into economic ruin. It’s one of the key reasons the Great Depression lasted as long as it did.
Fast forward to now—tariffs are making a comeback. And once again, some people are clapping. But here’s the truth:
Tariffs raise consumer prices. Food, medicine, tech—everything gets more expensive.
Tariffs distort global supply chains. Local businesses that rely on imported components start bleeding.
Tariffs trigger retaliation. One country hits, and the other hits back. And soon, no one is winning, but everyone will start to bleed more slowly.
The next time you’re tempted to cheer tariffs, ask: Whose interest is truly being served? Because behind every act of economic nationalism, there’s often a silent crisis building in homes, markets, and factories.
Trade is complex, but the principle is simple: When countries make it harder and more expensive to exchange goods, it’s the poorest who pay the price. And those cheering now may soon be the ones counting the cost.
We should stop cheering what we don’t fully understand because slogans don’t feed nations. Smart policy does.
he Audacity Journal 
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