The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a stern warning to Abuja-based automobile dealer Alamin Sarkinmota following a viral promotional video that mocked civil servants’ ability to afford luxury cars.
In the video, which promotes a 2023 Mercedes Benz C300 equipped with Artificial Intelligence features, Sarkinmota asks, “Can civil servants afford you?” The AI responds, “No! Maybe in 2062.” This remark sparked widespread backlash for belittling the financial status of Nigerian civil servants.
The National Orientation Agency (NOA), through its Director-General Lanre Issa-Onilu, condemned the video in a letter to Sarkinmota. The agency described the content as condescending and inappropriate, especially at a time when Nigerians face significant social and economic pressures. The NOA emphasized the crucial role civil servants play in sustaining government functions and enabling businesses to thrive, urging respect for their dignity and contributions.
The letter urged Sarkinmota to exercise caution in his marketing language to avoid offending any segment of the Nigerian population. It also highlighted the need to value dignity of labor over material possessions, calling for unity in building a resilient nation where every citizen can prosper.
Sarkinmota is known for his provocative style, often trolling civil servants over their inability to purchase the luxury vehicles he sells in the Federal Capital Territory. The government’s intervention signals a clear message against disparaging public servants in commercial promotions
