The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has condemned popular auto dealer Sarkin Mota for making what it described as “insensitive and tone-deaf remarks” about Nigerian civil servants in a now-viral video.
In the controversial clip, Sarkin Mota is seen interacting with the AI system of a Mercedes Benz 2023 C300, asking if Nigerian civil servants could afford such a luxury car. The AI’s sarcastic response — “No! Maybe in 2062” — sparked outrage online, with many accusing him of mocking the plight of average workers. He further stoked reactions by advising Nigerians to “hustle very well” if they ever hoped to own such vehicles.
Responding to the public uproar, NOA Director General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, criticized the video as a careless display of privilege. “At a time when citizens are grappling with serious economic difficulties, it is deeply unkind and damaging to mock the honest efforts of civil servants,” he stated.
Issa-Onilu emphasized that civil servants are not only the backbone of national development but also symbols of dedication and sacrifice, urging the public to respect their contributions instead of belittling them for not being able to afford luxuries.
The agency further warned influencers and business owners to be cautious about the kind of messages they share online. “Promoting materialism over the dignity of labour is harmful, especially in a society already facing immense pressure,” the NOA said, stressing the need for responsible content creation in the digital age.
The incident has reignited conversations around wealth flaunting on social media, with many calling for more empathy and less showmanship from influencers.
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