The National Orientation Agency has warned popular car dealer, Sarkin Mota, over a viral video in which he appeared to mock Nigerian civil servants by implying they cannot afford luxury vehicles like the 2023 Mercedes Benz C300.
In the video, Sarkin Mota asked the car’s voice assistant if civil servants could afford it. The AI responded, “No! maybe in 2062.” He then urged viewers to “hustle very well” if they wanted to afford such a car.
The Director General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, reacted to the video in a statement released on Sunday, June 1, saying such content can put more pressure on young Nigerians and promote the wrong values.
“At a time when many Nigerians are under social and economic pressure, it is wrong to mock honest workers and promote the idea of getting rich at all costs,” he said.
He reminded the public that civil servants play a vital role in the country’s progress.
“To be a civil servant in Nigeria, like in most countries, is a very important role. Civil servants work hard every day to keep the country running and to create the environment for businesses like yours to thrive,” Issa-Onilu said.
He urged Sarkin Mota and other content creators to be more sensitive and respectful when promoting their products.
“We advise you to choose your words carefully when promoting vehicles or other goods. Avoid saying things that may offend or look down on any group of Nigerians,” he said.
The NOA boss added that the agency decided to respond publicly after receiving complaints from many people who felt insulted by the video.
“Let us work together to build a Nigeria where dignity of labour is respected more than material things,” Issa-Onilu concluded.
The agency encouraged all Nigerians, especially influencers and businesspeople, to promote unity, respect, and hard work through their content.
