Afrobeats singer Mr Real has sparked controversy after criticising First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s suggestion that Nigerians embrace petty trading as a way to cope with the country’s economic challenges, declaring that he would rather become a bandit than sell akara or kulikuli.
The First Lady recently encouraged Nigerians to explore small-scale businesses such as selling akara, kulikuli and roasted corn, noting that such ventures require little capital to start. Her remarks, however, triggered widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians arguing that the advice failed to reflect the harsh economic realities facing millions of citizens.
Reacting in a post shared online, the Legbegbe crooner expressed frustration over the suggestion, writing: “I go rather join bandit than to sell kulikuli and akara. And my target will be only politicians. At least if I am caught, they will rehabilitate me.”
Mr Real’s comments appeared to criticise both the First Lady’s recommendation and the government’s handling of insecurity. He suggested that petty trading is not a practical solution to Nigeria’s deepening economic hardship while also implying that suspected bandits often receive rehabilitation after arrest.
His remarks have since generated mixed reactions across social media, with some users condemning his choice of words and others viewing his statement as an expression of public frustration over the nation’s economic situation.
The debate adds to the growing public discourse surrounding the First Lady’s call for Nigerians to embrace small-scale trading as a means of earning a livelihood amid rising living costs.