A Nigerian man has taken to social media to lament the theft of his farm produce, sharing a video that has since sparked a major conversation online. The man, identified on TikTok as @bright.ben8, showed how a thief brazenly cut and stole a part of his plantain while it was still unripe.
Video Reveals Theft of Unripe Produce
In the video posted on December 19, 2025, the dismayed man explained that his plantain had just sprouted and was not yet fully mature. He expressed shock that someone would go through the trouble of harvesting it prematurely. The footage clearly shows one bunch missing from the plantain tree, with only a smaller part left for the actual owner.
The man narrated in Pidgin English: "See wahala for Nigeria wey we dey. My plantain just come out, e never too tey o! E never even strong. See am now, dem don cut am. Na small one dem come remain for me." He pondered how the thief managed to reach the plantain, questioning if a ladder was used. He concluded by stating his intention to harvest the remaining bunch himself to prevent the thief from returning to take everything.
Netizens React: Hunger or Greed?
The video quickly went viral on TikTok, amassing a flood of comments from users who shared their perspectives on the incident. While many condemned the act of theft, a significant number of comments pointed to the harsh economic realities in the country as a potential motive.
Some users saw a twisted form of mercy in the crime. User @Godspower commented, "The person try self he keep half for you not a greedy person," while @Big Zanetti called it a "No Greedy Zone" and labeled the thief "God Fearing."
Others used the opportunity to humorously reflect on the state of the nation. @Single Savage remarked, "Well this time around, even the bandits don’t kidnap plantain in Nigeria again o things have really changed!" Many commenters, like @chibest turner, directly attributed the act to hunger, saying, "Na hunger, if na some people them go start Dey swear."
The incident also prompted warnings from others who have experienced similar losses. User @salihu abdulkadir shared, "You get luck my own they turn the place like is their farm," and @IkukuAnyanwu urged the owner to "Cut am o, faaaast. If not, you nkow wetin go happun naa."
A Glimmer of Hope: From Plantain Seller to Graduate
In a related story that contrasts struggle with triumph, Legit.ng previously reported on a Nigerian lady who used to sell plantain but persevered through education to earn a university degree. She shared photos of her past selling plantain alongside her graduation pictures, receiving widespread congratulations. This story, reported by human-interest editor Israel Usulor, serves as an inspiring counterpoint, highlighting resilience in the face of economic challenges.
The viral plantain theft video underscores the everyday realities for many Nigerians, where securing basic food can be a challenge. It has opened a window into public sentiment, blending humor, frustration, and a sobering discussion about the socio-economic conditions in the country.
