The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has condemned a viral video skit promoting the 2023 Mercedes-Benz C300, describing it as “condescending” and disrespectful to Nigerian civil servants.
The skit, which featured artificial intelligence responding to the prompt “Can civil servants afford you?” with the quip “No! Maybe in 2062”, has sparked outrage among viewers and public officials.
In a strongly worded letter, NOA Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, stated: “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 emphasised that civil servants play a pivotal role in national development, creating the infrastructure and stability that allow businesses to thrive.
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Issa-Onilu added: “It is therefore indecent to speak condescendingly about Nigerian civil servants who spend many years of their lives dedicated to driving the machinery of government.”
The Agency warned the creator of the skit to be mindful of their words to avoid hurting public sensibilities.
The letter also highlighted the feedback from concerned citizens who watched the video, noting that the issue could erode public trust and values.
“Please take note,” Issa-Onilu concluded, urging collective effort towards building a Nigeria “where dignity of labour is valued over and above material things.”
The NOA reiterated its commitment to promoting national values and defending the dignity of hardworking Nigerians across all sectors.
