Nigerian singer and entertainer Mr Real has sparked controversy by rejecting First Lady Oluremi Tinubu's advice encouraging Nigerians to start small-scale businesses such as selling akara, roasted corn, and kuli-kuli to cope with economic hardship. In a strongly worded Instagram post, the singer declared he would rather become a bandit than engage in such ventures.
Mr Real's Controversial Statement
In his post, Mr Real wrote: "I go rather join bandit than to sell kulikuli and Akara. And my target will be politicians. At least if am being caught they will habitat me. So is worth the risk." The comment swiftly drew reactions from social media users, with many criticizing or defending his stance.
First Lady's Renewed Hope Initiative
First Lady Remi Tinubu had earlier spoken about the Renewed Hope Initiative, a program that provides grants to vulnerable Nigerians instead of loans. She emphasized that small businesses like akara and kuli-kuli require minimal capital and can generate sustainable income. "To start akara business doesn't take a lot of money. To start roasting corn or kuli-kuli doesn't take much. We didn't give them a loan; we gave them a grant. We have encouraged Nigerians as best as we could," she said.
Public Reactions to Mr Real's Post
Social media users expressed mixed views. @Abdul__BK commented: "He has gone too far... Rather Join bandits? Alright let's see the differences Bandits: staying in bushes, making 10m and getting only 10k inside. Akara seller: staying in the city, making 200k profit from less than 50k capital, choose wisely again bro, it's not about politics." @idriisgarba noted: "Selling akara or kuli-kuli is honest work and deserves respect. That's the buzz that keeps some of our families in the North for ages." @Babatundeeminem wrote: "All the people against selling Akara are all Yibos and na them full Yoruba land pushing wheel barrows in hot sun."
Context of Economic Hardship
Mr Real's comments add to the ongoing debate about the government's recommendations for tackling Nigeria's cost-of-living crisis. The singer's rejection highlights the frustration many Nigerians feel toward suggestions perceived as out of touch with the severity of economic challenges.
