Popular TikTok influencer Habeeb Hamzat, known as Peller, has sparked fresh debate online. He pointed out what he sees as selective outrage in public discourse.
Peller referenced recent comments by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu. She encouraged poor Nigerians, particularly women, to start small-scale businesses like selling akara, roasted corn, and kuli-kuli. She noted these ventures require little capital and are supported by government grants.
The First Lady made the remarks during a Renewed Hope Initiative event in Abuja. She stressed efforts to give hope amid economic challenges.
Her statement drew significant backlash on social media. Critics called it tone-deaf given high food inflation and youth unemployment. Memes and AI-generated images of graduates selling akara flooded platforms.
Peller, in a viral clip, addressed the disparity. “When the First Lady said Nigerians should go into akara and corn business, the media stayed silent. But when I said I would pay graduates ₦1 million, I was dragged,” he stated.
The 20-year-old content creator has previously offered substantial pay to graduates. Reports indicate proposals around ₦500,000 to ₦1 million monthly for roles like cameraman. This fueled discussions on education, skills, and employment in Nigeria.
Peller claims to give away about ₦15 million monthly. He has engaged in public spats, including with rapper Ycee over "Peller culture" and the value of formal education.
Reactions remain divided. Some users support Peller's emphasis on practical opportunities. Others defend the need for systemic solutions beyond individual gestures or petty trading.
The episode underscores ongoing tensions around youth empowerment, economic realities, and public figures' influence in Nigeria. Peller continues to draw both praise for his generosity and scrutiny over his rise and statements.
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