From Kenneth Udeh
The Federal Government has issued a formal warning to Abuja-based automobile dealer, popularly known as Alamin Sarkinmota, over a recent viral video in which civil servants were mocked for their perceived inability to afford luxury vehicles.
In a letter signed by the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, the agency condemned the video skit titled “Justice for Civil Servants,” which was intended to promote a 2023 Mercedes-Benz C300 equipped with artificial intelligence features.
In the skit, the dealer asked the AI-powered car, “Can civil servants afford you?” to which the system responded, “No, maybe in 2062.”
The NOA described the remark as inappropriate and demeaning, particularly in the context of the current economic climate.
“At a time when Nigerians are under significant social and economic pressure, and in an environment where a ‘get-rich-at-all-cost’ mentality is spreading, it is deeply troubling to see the dignity of labour undermined in favour of materialism,” the letter stated.
The agency emphasized the crucial role that civil servants play in nation-building, noting that their work sustains the very systems that enable private enterprises including car dealerships to flourish.
“It is both disrespectful and irresponsible to speak condescendingly about Nigerian civil servants, many of whom dedicate decades of their lives to public service, helping to uphold the institutions that support businesses like yours,” the letter continued.
The NOA urged the dealer to exercise greater sensitivity and discretion in his future promotional content, especially when addressing any segment of the Nigerian population.
“This caution is issued in response to widespread feedback from concerned Nigerians who viewed the video. We encourage you to reflect on the impact of your words and to support efforts to promote a culture that values hard work, integrity, and mutual respect,” the statement concluded.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a society where all citizens are respected and where the dignity of labour takes precedence over materialism.