The Federal Government has cautioned a well-known Abuja-based car dealer, Alamin Sarkinmota, over a recent video that made fun of Nigerian civil servants and their ability to purchase high-end vehicles. The National Orientation Agency (NOA) issued this warning in response to a video posted by the dealer, which has since sparked wide criticism online.
In the video, Sarkinmota showcased a 2023 Mercedes Benz C300, fitted with artificial intelligence (AI) features. While promoting the car, he asked, “Can civil servants afford you?” The AI system in the car replied, “No! maybe in 2062.” The video quickly gained attention for what many described as a disrespectful jab at hardworking public servants.
Lanre Issa-Onilu, Director-General of the NOA, signed the warning letter addressed to the car dealer. According to the letter, the agency believes that making fun of public workers, especially during tough economic times, sends the wrong message to the public.
The DG noted, “At a time when Nigerians are passing through so much social pressure and in an environment where get-rich-at-all-cost syndrome is pervasive… it is wrong to be speaking in such condescending terms about Nigerian civil servants.”
He further stated that civil servants play vital roles in the country’s development. “Civil servants across sectors are the ones who work hard to provide enabling environment for businesses like yours to thrive and prosper,” he noted.
The agency urged the auto dealer to be more mindful in his marketing and avoid using language or jokes that could insult any group of Nigerians. “We have taken the trouble to respond based on the feedback we are getting from many people who have watched your video skit,” the statement read.
While the letter does not mention any legal consequences, it sends a strong message on the importance of respectful public discourse. “Please accept the assurance of my best wishes as we work together to build a resilient country where every cadre of citizen can thrive and be respected,” it concluded.
Sarkinmota has become known for his flashy sales videos, often mocking average Nigerians, especially government workers, for not being able to afford the luxury cars he promotes. His latest video, however, seems to have crossed a line, triggering this rare official response.
